2006 Cadillac CTS vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 2006 Cadillac CTS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 604 kg more than 1997 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 626, 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, 2006 Cadillac CTS (232 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac CTS | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mazda |
| Model | CTS | 626 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1794 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2620 mm |
