2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Cadillac CTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Cadillac CTS would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2008 Cadillac CTS. (179 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Cadillac CTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 459 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 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 2008 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Mazda 3 (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Cadillac CTS. (233 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Cadillac CTS. 2008 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2008 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Mazda | Cadillac |
| Model | 3 | CTS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1788 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
