2006 Cadillac CTS vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Cadillac CTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Cadillac CTS would be higher. At 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac CTS (252 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
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, 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, 2006 Cadillac CTS (342 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac CTS | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mazda |
| Model | CTS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3564 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 342 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
