2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2003 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Cadillac CTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Cadillac CTS would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 220 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Cadillac CTS. (245 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Cadillac CTS. 2003 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Volkswagen Jetta | 2003 Cadillac CTS | |
Make | Volkswagen | Cadillac |
Model | Jetta | CTS |
Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 179 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4557 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1781 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1504 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |