2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Cadillac CTS

To start off, 2011 Cadillac CTS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (399 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2011 Cadillac CTS. (270 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2011 Cadillac CTS.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Explorer (369 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Cadillac CTS. (302 Nm @ 5700 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Cadillac CTS. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2011 Cadillac CTS has manual transmission. 2011 Cadillac CTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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