2004 Cadillac CTS vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Cadillac CTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Cadillac CTS would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2004 Cadillac CTS. (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Cadillac CTS.
Because 2004 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 2004 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer, 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Cadillac CTS. (232 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Cadillac CTS. 2011 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2004 Cadillac CTS has manual transmission. 2004 Cadillac CTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Cadillac CTS | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Cadillac | Ford |
| Model | CTS | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
