2009 Cadillac Escalade vs. 1986 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2009 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac Escalade (332 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 865 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1986 Volkswagen Polo, 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 (499 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 404 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac Escalade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Cadillac Escalade has automatic transmission and 1986 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1986 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac Escalade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Cadillac Escalade 1986 Volkswagen Polo
Make Cadillac Volkswagen
Model Escalade Polo
Year Released 2009 1986
Body Type SUV Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5999 cc 1043 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 332 HP 44 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 499 Nm 95 Nm
Torque RPM 4100 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline / Electric Hybrid Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 8 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1635 kg 770 kg
Vehicle Length 5150 mm 3660 mm
Vehicle Width 2010 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1930 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2340 mm