2004 Cadillac CTS vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Cadillac CTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Cadillac CTS 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 31 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 480 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. 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, 2011 Mazda 3, 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 (232 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Cadillac CTS has manual transmission. 2004 Cadillac CTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Cadillac CTS | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mazda |
| Model | CTS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1780 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
