2009 Cadillac STS vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS is newer by 12 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (320 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. (240 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 54 kg more than 2009 Cadillac STS.
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 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, 2009 Cadillac STS (427 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. (380 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac STS | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
| Model | STS | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 66 L |
