Car Buying Tips – Critical Vehicle Specs to Know When Buying a Cadillac at Scott Cadillac

Understanding basic vehicle specifications is important to determining whether a vehicle is right for you. However, these vehicle specs and terms can be puzzling.

To make things easier for you, Scott Cadillac has compiled a list of the most common vehicle specifications. Here is a jargon list to help you navigate car shopping and pick the right vehicle. When you're ready to buy, stop by our Allentown, PA, dealership to take a test drive.

Cadillac Buying Guide - Common Vehicle Specs

Some vehicle specs are obvious: "eight airbags" means the vehicle has eight airbags. However, some specs can be confusing. So, here are some of the most common terms you'll see on a spec sheet to give you an idea of what they mean.

Performance Specifications

Engine

The engine powers vehicles, converting heat from burning gas into force that turns the wheels. When choosing a vehicle, you need to know which type of engine you want: gasoline, diesel, electric, and hybrid engines, which mix gasoline and electricity. Common terms associated with the engine are as follows:

• Horsepower: This is a measurement of engine power.
• Torque: Torque refers to how powerfully vehicle wheels rotate. Engine torque is typically measured in pound-feet (lb-ft).
• MPG or Miles per Gallon: Miles-per-gallon ratings tell you how far an automobile will go on one gallon of fuel. It's not uncommon for people to factor this into their decision to purchase a vehicle.

Transmission

The transmission transmits engine power and torque to the drive wheels to move the vehicle. Several types of transmission are available today, including manual, automatic, torque converter, automated manual, dual-clutch transmission (DCT), and continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Drivetrain

Drivetrains transmit power from an engine or transmission to the wheels.

• All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): Vehicles with AWD or 4WD distribute power evenly among all four wheels. This is preferable for off-roading, as it provides more traction control.
• Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Power is transmitted to the rear wheels, a common feature in performance vehicles.
• Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): The front wheels receive all the power.

Size and Space Specifications

• Wheelbase: A vehicle's wheelbase measurement is taken from the center of its wheels to its axle lines. There is a correlation between wheelbase and handling, ride quality, and appearance.
• Ground Clearance: It is the distance between the bottom of the vehicle body and the ground. Higher clearance, like the Cadillac Escalade's 8.0 inches, means you don't have to worry about undercarriage scratches or damage when traveling on bumpy or rough roads.
• Cargo Capacity: This will tell you how much trunk space you'll have for groceries or sports gear.
• Seating Capacity: Specifies how many people can comfortably ride in the vehicle. Most sedans and compact SUVs seat five, while SUVs accommodate seven or eight.

Tech and Safety Features

• Infotainment System: An interface similar to that on smartphones is used for entertainment, information, and vehicle functions. Connectivity includes features like Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®, which enable users to access the internet or make hands-free phone calls.
• Driver-Assist Features: With this suite of intelligent safety and convenience features, drivers will have a variety of options available when it comes to highway cruising, parking, and more. Cadillac vehicles use the Cadillac Smart System.

Browse and Shop Your Next Vehicle at Scott Cadillac

Whether you are looking for a luxury vehicle or a spacious SUV, Scott Cadillac can help you find the perfect vehicle. The Cadillac inventory at our dealership includes top-of-the-line sedans, SUVs, and electric vehicles. Visit us and take a test drive today.

*Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.