2009 Cadillac STS vs. 2002 Chevrolet Impala

To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chevrolet Impala 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 140 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Impala. (180 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 25 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Impala. 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, 2002 Chevrolet Impala, 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 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Impala. (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Impala.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Cadillac STS 2002 Chevrolet Impala
Make Cadillac Chevrolet
Model STS Impala
Year Released 2009 2002
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4565 cc 3350 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 320 HP 180 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 427 Nm 278 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
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 1535 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 5090 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2960 mm 2810 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 117 L