2009 Cadillac STS vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (236 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 447 kg more than 2009 Cadillac STS.
Because 2003 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, 2003 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Cadillac STS. (369 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Cadillac STS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac STS | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Cadillac | Ford |
| Model | STS | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 2082 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 |
