2009 Cadillac Escalade vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 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 (403 HP) has 344 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 695 kg more than 1985 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, 1985 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 (566 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 466 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 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 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac Escalade | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escalade | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| 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 | 403 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 566 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5670 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1920 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2560 mm |
