2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Cadillac CTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Cadillac CTS would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 133 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 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, both vehicles can yield 245 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Cadillac CTS | 2006 Kia Optima | |
Make | Cadillac | Kia |
Model | CTS | Optima |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2671 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 179 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 86.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.6 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1487 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 65 L |