2011 Kia Optima vs. 2009 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Cadillac CTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Cadillac CTS would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2009 Cadillac CTS. (215 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2009 Cadillac CTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 255 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
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, 2011 Kia Optima, 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Cadillac CTS. (300 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Cadillac CTS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Kia Optima | 2009 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Kia | Cadillac |
| Model | Optima | CTS |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 274 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4844 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1831 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1455 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2797 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
