2009 Cadillac Escalade vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 6,162 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac Escalade (397 HP) has 338 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 626 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Cadillac Escalade 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 2009 Cadillac Escalade. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Escalade (417 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac Escalade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Cadillac Escalade | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
Model | Escalade | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6162 cc | 1295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 397 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 417 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 103.3 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1566 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2560 mm |