2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 2002 Kia Optima
To start off, 2003 Cadillac CTS is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 188 kg more than 2002 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Kia Optima, 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, 2003 Cadillac CTS (245 Nm) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac CTS | 2002 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Cadillac | Kia |
| Model | CTS | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1432 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
