2009 Cadillac CTS vs. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac CTS (259 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (201 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2009 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 2009 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Cadillac CTS. (253 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Cadillac CTS. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Cadillac CTS has manual transmission. 2009 Cadillac CTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac CTS | 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Cadillac | Chevrolet |
| Model | CTS | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3564 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 259 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 253 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
