2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima 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 3,563 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac CTS (252 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (194 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 156 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 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 (346 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2009 Kia Optima 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 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Cadillac CTS | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | Cadillac | Kia |
Model | CTS | Optima |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3563 cc | 2656 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 252 HP | 194 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 346 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 86.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1519 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 62 L |