2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Cadillac CTS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac CTS (318 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 398 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2012 Cadillac CTS (372 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Cadillac |
| Model | Malibu | CTS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 318 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1778 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4788 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2880 mm |
