[Aoyagi]

Hi, I'm new here.

I'm thinking about getting a used STS or 2nd gen CTS (both V6), what are the main differences? Other than the CTS has better fuel consumption.

As for more specific questions, should I ask in each model's subforum?

Thanks.

 

[Aoyagi]

OK, different question, are there any Europeans here?

 

[Paul London]

A few [2 French, 2 Dutch & a Pole (or 2) at the last count] but there must be (many) others who never post.

You'll have to look to our American cousins for answers to your first question though. Obviously there will be differences between the US & European models of both cars - but they're not likely to be of great importance, at this stage.

Good luck!

 

[Aoyagi]

Heh, that's not a lot then. Thanks, mate! I'll move over to vehicle specific subforums then ->

 

[PontiacV8]

A few [2 French, 2 Dutch & a Pole (or 2) at the last count] but there must be (many) others who never post.

...and a German...

As for more specific questions, should I ask in each model's subforum?

...yes, you should...

...it depends on what you are looking for exactly, but...
...the european export STS was only available from MY 2005 to 2009...it's no problem to find a 2005 and 2006 (and many do have a late registration) and some 2007, but the facelift-2008 and particular 2009 are very rare/seldom here...comparatively...(MY 2010 and 2011 n/a...only grey marketed...if any...)

...the 2nd Gen CTS as an european export was available from 2008 up...they are still "very" frequent...
(and the euro export specs MY 2014 model change 3rd Gen CTS is only available as a 4 cylinder 2.0L Turbo)

I'm thinking about getting a used STS or 2nd gen CTS (both V6), what are the main differences? Other than the CTS has better fuel consumption.

...in a direct comparision...the STS is a little more "out-dated"...

For euro export specs cars:
...if you are looking for a V6, the 2005 - 2007 STS got the 257 HP (DIN) 3.6L LY7 engine, 2008 and 2009 got the 3.6L Di LLT with 311 HP (DIN)...
...the 2nd Gen CTS startet with MY 2008...and had more types of a V6 available...
...for the 3.6L on the export specs CTS...there are a few early 2nd Gen CTS, that still got the "weaker" LY7, but the most got the 3.6L Di LLT...(also available a 2.8 and a 3.0 V6)
...and 2012 the V6 engine was changed to the 3.6 LFX with a 322 (DIN)-HP rating..

 

[Aoyagi]

Quite extensive, thanks.

Yeah, I'm certainly looking for the Euro-Cadillacs with grey rear lights and the CTS seems to be generally more expensive than STS so I was wondering whether it's worth it. Someone also told me some time ago that STS is softer ride or something... oh well.

 

[maeng9981]

CTS is more of a mid size sport sedan, and STS is a good compromise between a sport sedan and a luxury cruiser. STS will have more bells and whistles generally. The window sticker price for STS was probably higher new.

Also the STS models have something the CTS never received: A RWD Northstar V8.

 

[Aoyagi]

So as a Cadillac fan, would you say CTS makes a meh cruiser? I mean, I have to drive the egg-shaped Euro Civic at work and that thing has pretty harsh suspension. My current car is even worse. A year ago I drove a 2005 Sebring convertible and the softness made me want a cruiser. Cadillac is still among to top, because I love the design.

 

[rodnok01]

So as a Cadillac fan, would you say CTS makes a meh cruiser? I mean, I have to drive the egg-shaped Euro Civic at work and that thing has pretty harsh suspension. My current car is even worse. A year ago I drove a 2005 Sebring convertible and the softness made me want a cruiser. Cadillac is still among to top, because I love the design.

Boy if you thought Sebring had a soft ride you are in for a treat with a Cadillac.... My close friend has a Sebring and it's s horrible to ride in.

 

[Aoyagi]

Well, the one I drove in was a pretty well maintained convertible, the top trim. Wasn't your friend's Sebring a sedan? Because I remember some people complaining that it was almost grandpa-soft, as they say...

Regardless, I'm sure large Cadillacs are much better, that's why I've wanted to try STS/CTS2 out, but they're so rare here that it's nigh impossible, heh. I saw one on the street the other day, it was totally out of place.

 

[talismandave]

Sebring Converitble ride varies greatly on what model. Wide tires and handling suspension nightmare hard and corners like it is on rails, rental fleet base models were pretty nice cruisers.

STS, (and even CTS) would probably beat them both in ride quality by a mile.

 

[brandondeleo]

Sebring Converitble ride varies greatly on what model. Wide tires and handling suspension nightmare hard and corners like it is on rails, rental fleet base models were pretty nice cruisers.

STS, (and even CTS) would probably beat them both in ride quality by a mile.

My '00 convertible rode very softly and smoothly. Incredibly comfortable, and having experience in both I'd confidently say it was more comfortable on a road trip than a first gen CTS. My 04 sedan was moderately comfortable but no more so than any other standard mid sized family car. The third gen (07 on) is atrocious in every way. -your local Sebring lover lol

----------

In my opinion, and this is because it aligns to my personal preference for larger cruisers, I'd prefer an STS to a CTS2 any day. The CTS interior is very compelling, though... When I drove Gary's CTS2 (though for only two blocks and back) I enjoyed the solid and overall responsive feel of the car.

 

[ben.gators]

In Europe, with those narrow roads, you would be better off with the CTS. It is the sportier car relative to the STS. However, I personally disliked the CTS2. It is a heavy car. In my book, a "sporty" car has to be light and tosable, something like my ATS.

Ont the other hand, STS doesn't even try or claim to be a sporty car. It is a great cruiser car, and it is good at what it is; a nice comfortable cruiser car.

Please notice that pre-2008 V6 engines had some timing chain issues. But CTS2 has a new, upgraded V6 and doesn't suffer from the same issue. But if you buy the pre-2008 STS, you might be dealing with that issue. I would suggest going to STS forum, and reading about this issue.

 

[Aoyagi]

That's the thing, I don't care for sporty. I mean, not too much. Soft ride is the priority . But the CTS2 has an amazing looking interior, among other things.

Yeah, I'll inquire about it over at the proper subforum.