2001 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Cadillac CTS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac CTS (270 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 408 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Cadillac CTS 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 2012 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3, 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, 2001 Audi A3 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Cadillac CTS. (302 Nm @ 5700 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Cadillac CTS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2012 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Audi | Cadillac |
| Model | A3 | CTS |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1748 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
