2009 Cadillac STS vs. 2002 Ford Explorer

To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (212 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 375 kg more than 2009 Cadillac STS.

Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Cadillac STS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Cadillac STS. (369 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Cadillac STS. 2009 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Explorer 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 2002 Ford Explorer
Make Cadillac Ford
Model STS Explorer
Year Released 2009 2002
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3599 cc 4947 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 302 HP 212 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 369 Nm 390 Nm
Torque RPM 5200 RPM 3300 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1635 kg 2010 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1730 mm
Wheelbase Size 2960 mm 2840 mm