2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 9 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, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (190 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Cadillac CTS. (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata 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, 2012 Hyundai Sonata, 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 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. (242 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. 2012 Hyundai Sonata 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. 2012 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac CTS | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Cadillac | Hyundai |
| Model | CTS | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 242 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2794 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
