2009 Cadillac CTS vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac CTS (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 400 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Cadillac CTS 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 CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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 CTS (300 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac CTS | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | CTS | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
