2009 Cadillac DTS vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (292 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 345 kg more than 1986 Volvo 242. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1986 Volvo 242. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Cadillac DTS (391 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242. 2009 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1986 Volvo 242 has manual transmission. 1986 Volvo 242 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac DTS | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | DTS | 242 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2660 mm |
