2009 Cadillac DTS vs. 1988 Chevrolet Caprice
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,032 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (292 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. (138 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 265 kg more than 2009 Cadillac DTS.
Because 1988 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. (347 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Chevrolet Caprice.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac DTS | 1988 Chevrolet Caprice | |
| Make | Cadillac | Chevrolet |
| Model | DTS | Caprice |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 5032 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 347 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 5460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2950 mm |
