2012 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 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, 2009 Cadillac CTS (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 407 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 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 (300 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mazda 3 | 2009 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Mazda | Cadillac |
| Model | 3 | CTS |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4506 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
