2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander

To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander is newer by 5 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 3,563 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2003 Cadillac CTS. (252 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2003 Cadillac CTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 906 kg more than 2003 Cadillac CTS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Cadillac CTS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. 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 (346 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Highlander. (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Highlander. 2008 Toyota Highlander 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. 2008 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Cadillac CTS 2008 Toyota Highlander
Make Cadillac Toyota
Model CTS Highlander
Year Released 2003 2008
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3563 cc 3546 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 252 HP 270 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 346 Nm 336 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4700 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1675 kg 2581 kg
Vehicle Length 4840 mm 4790 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1920 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1740 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2800 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 73 L