2009 Cadillac STS vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 400 kg more than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Cadillac STS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 2009 Cadillac STS (369 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. 2009 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 1988 Pontiac Grand Am has manual transmission. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am 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 | 1988 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
Model | STS | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3599 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 369 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1235 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 69 L |