2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Cadillac DTS
To start off, 2011 Cadillac DTS 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 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 292 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 852 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac DTS, 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 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Cadillac DTS. (390 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Cadillac DTS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2011 Cadillac DTS | |
| Make | Ford | Cadillac |
| Model | Explorer | DTS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 292 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1818 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5273 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2936 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.4 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.8 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 68 L |
