2009 Cadillac STS vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 278 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 875 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Cadillac STS 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 STS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 STS (369 Nm) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac STS | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | STS | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 40 L |
