2009 Cadillac STS vs. 1982 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Passat 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) has 243 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 695 kg more than 1982 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 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, 1982 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 STS (369 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac STS | 1982 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | STS | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2560 mm |
