2003 Opel Astra vs. 2004 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2004 Cadillac CTS is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 322 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra, 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, 2004 Cadillac CTS (245 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2004 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Opel | Cadillac |
| Model | Astra | CTS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 64 L |
