2009 Cadillac CTS vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 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 176 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3.
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 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, 2009 Cadillac CTS (253 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac CTS | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mazda |
| Model | CTS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3564 cc | 1349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 259 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 253 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
