2008 Cadillac STS vs. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 2008 Cadillac STS is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac STS (302 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. (220 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Trans Am.
Because 2008 Cadillac STS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac STS will offer significantly more control. 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, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Cadillac STS. (369 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Cadillac STS. 2008 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 1979 Pontiac Trans Am has manual transmission. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac STS | 1979 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
| Model | STS | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3564 cc | 6555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 220 HP |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.1 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2750 mm |
