2006 Cadillac CTS vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2006 Cadillac CTS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2006 Cadillac CTS. (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2006 Cadillac CTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 464 kg more than 2006 Cadillac CTS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Cadillac CTS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Cadillac CTS. (263 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Cadillac CTS. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2006 Cadillac CTS has manual transmission. 2006 Cadillac CTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac CTS | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Cadillac | Ford |
| Model | CTS | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2801 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 263 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1618 kg | 2082 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2840 mm |
