2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 2009 Cadillac DTS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 6 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2003 Cadillac CTS. (252 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 2003 Cadillac CTS.
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, 2009 Cadillac DTS, 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 (346 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Cadillac DTS. (296 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Cadillac DTS. 2009 Cadillac DTS 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. 2009 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Cadillac CTS | 2009 Cadillac DTS | |
Make | Cadillac | Cadillac |
Model | CTS | DTS |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3563 cc | 4565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 252 HP | 271 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 346 Nm | 296 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |