2008 Cadillac CTS vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix

To start off, 2008 Cadillac CTS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2008 Cadillac CTS. (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 2008 Cadillac CTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 238 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix.

Because 2008 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 2008 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Cadillac CTS. (233 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Cadillac CTS. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 2008 Cadillac CTS has manual transmission. 2008 Cadillac CTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Cadillac CTS 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
Make Cadillac Pontiac
Model CTS Grand Prix
Year Released 2008 1997
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2597 cc 3785 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 179 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 233 Nm 305 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83.2 mm 96.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79.6 mm 86.4 mm
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 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1788 kg 1550 kg
Vehicle Length 4830 mm 5000 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2810 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 66 L