2007 Cadillac STS vs. 1996 Ford Contour
To start off, 2007 Cadillac STS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Contour would be higher. At 3,563 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Cadillac STS (253 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Cadillac STS weights approximately 540 kg more than 1996 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Cadillac STS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Contour, 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, 2007 Cadillac STS (342 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Cadillac STS | 1996 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Cadillac | Ford |
| Model | STS | Contour |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3563 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 342 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2710 mm |
