2006 Cadillac CTS vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Cadillac CTS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac CTS (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 352 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40. 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, 2003 Volvo S40, 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 (300 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40. 2003 Volvo S40 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 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac CTS | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | CTS | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3173 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 62 L |
