2009 Cadillac STS vs. 1979 Ford Mustang

To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (321 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1979 Ford Mustang. (87 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 632 kg more than 1979 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Cadillac STS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Ford Mustang. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Cadillac STS (427 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Mustang. 2009 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 1979 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1979 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Cadillac STS 1979 Ford Mustang
Make Cadillac Ford
Model STS Mustang
Year Released 2009 1979
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4565 cc 2294 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 321 HP 87 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 427 Nm 161 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 2800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 96 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1820 kg 1188 kg
Vehicle Length 4990 mm 4560 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2960 mm 2560 mm