2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 2007 Kia Optima
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 4 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 17 more horse power than 2007 Kia Optima. (162 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2007 Kia Optima.
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, 2007 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 @ 3400 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Optima. (222 Nm @ 4260 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac CTS | 2007 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Cadillac | Kia |
| Model | CTS | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4260 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 65 L |
