2003 Mazda 323 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 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac CTS (270 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 588 kg more than 2003 Mazda 323. 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 Mazda 323, 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 (302 Nm @ 5700 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 323 | 2012 Cadillac CTS | |
Make | Mazda | Cadillac |
Model | 323 | CTS |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 97 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 302 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1748 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4788 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1842 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2880 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |