2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra 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 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 290 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra. 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 Opel Astra, 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 @ 3400 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (201 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2006 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2003 Cadillac CTS has manual transmission. 2003 Cadillac CTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac CTS | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Cadillac | Opel |
| Model | CTS | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 52 L |
