Vauxhall Lotus Carlton

vs

Cadillac CTS-V

UK vs USA — 1990 vs 2016

Vauxhall Lotus Carlton (1990)
Cadillac CTS-V (2016)
Specifications
Lotus Carlton 3.6 Twin-TurboCTS-V 3rd Gen 640hp LT4
Horsepower377 hp640 hp
Torque419 lb-ft630 lb-ft
Engine Size3,615 cc6,162 cc
0-60 mph5.1 sec3.7 sec
Top Speed176 mph200 mph
¼ Mile13.4 sec11.8 sec
Weight3,649 lbs4,112 lbs
Wheelbase2,730 mm2,910 mm
Length4,813 mm4,966 mm
Units Produced950
Original MSRP$86,995
Value (Excellent)$200,000$85,000
Collectibility9/108/10
Rarity9/106/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 2016 Cadillac CTS-V 3rd Gen 640hp LT4 with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1990 Vauxhall Lotus Carlton 3.6 Twin-Turbo offers lighter weight, stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1990 Vauxhall Lotus Carlton 3.6 Twin-Turbo versus 2016 Cadillac CTS-V 3rd Gen 640hp LT4 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 2016 Cadillac CTS-V 3rd Gen 640hp LT4 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 640 hp compared to 377 hp, a 263-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Vauxhall Lotus Carlton uses a Inline-6 DOHC Twin-Turbo displacing 3,615 cc, while the Cadillac CTS-V relies on a V8 OHV Supercharged with 6,162 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2016 Cadillac CTS-V 3rd Gen 640hp LT4 edges ahead at 3.7 seconds versus 5.1 seconds. The Vauxhall Lotus Carlton carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 463 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.