1988 Buick Electra vs. 2009 Cadillac STS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Electra would be higher. At 4,564 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (320 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1988 Buick Electra. (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 60 kg more than 1988 Buick Electra. 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, 1988 Buick Electra, 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 (427 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Buick Electra. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Buick Electra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick Electra | 2009 Cadillac STS | |
| Make | Buick | Cadillac |
| Model | Electra | STS |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4564 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2960 mm |
