2009 Cadillac STS vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura EL 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 175 more horse power than 1997 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 556 kg more than 1997 Acura EL. 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, 1997 Acura EL, 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 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL. 2009 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 1997 Acura EL has manual transmission. 1997 Acura EL 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 | 1997 Acura EL | |
| Make | Cadillac | Acura |
| Model | STS | EL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2619 mm |
