2009 Cadillac STS vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (321 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 745 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Cadillac STS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS will offer significantly more control. 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 (427 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (166 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac STS | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | STS | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2560 mm |
