2006 Cadillac DTS vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2006 Cadillac DTS 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 192 kg more than 2006 Cadillac DTS.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Cadillac DTS. 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, 2006 Cadillac DTS (388 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2006 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac DTS | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Cadillac | Ford |
| Model | DTS | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1758 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2840 mm |
