Cadillac CTS 1st Gen
The first-generation CTS heralded Cadillac's return to rear-wheel-drive performance sedans with its sharp "Art and Science" design. It remains an exceptionally affordable entry into the modern sport sedan market.
Find one with Spotter →Cadillac CTS 1st Gen sold for a median of $2,950 over the last 12 months, based on 7 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $2,581 and $4,375. 978 currently for sale.
The first-generation Cadillac CTS, sold from 2003 to 2007, was a huge step for the brand. It introduced the sharp-edged "Art and Science" design philosophy and was built on the all-new, rear-wheel-drive Sigma platform. Developed with a focus on driving dynamics, including testing at Germany's Nürburgring, the CTS was Cadillac's first serious attempt to challenge European sport sedans like the BMW 3 Series.
While the high-performance CTS-V gets most of the attention, the standard CTS is significant as the car that started Cadillac's modern transformation. Collectors see it as a turning point for the American luxury brand, moving away from soft, front-wheel-drive sedans. It offered a manual transmission option, a first for a Cadillac sedan since the 1980s, which makes those examples more interesting to enthusiasts.
Today, the market treats the first-gen CTS as a used car rather than a collectible. With an average sale price of just over $3,000, these cars are extremely affordable. Most are well-used, but clean, low-mileage examples represent a low-cost entry point into a historically important and fun-to-drive modern sedan.
Buying Tips
- Check the rear differential for issues. Listen for clunking noises from the rear end on acceleration or during shifts, as worn bushings and mounts are common failures.
- Inspect the interior for wear and tear. The early-2000s GM plastic quality isn't great, so look for peeling button finishes, cracked dash pads, and worn leather seats.
- The 3.6L V6 (introduced in 2004) is known for timing chain issues. Ask for service records showing that this expensive repair has been done, especially on cars with over 100,000 miles.
- Test all electronics thoroughly. Power windows, seat adjusters, and the central infotainment screen can all be prone to failure.
Prices for traded examples between 2003 and 2008 range from a low of $250 to a high of $7,501.
3,771 Cadillac CTS 1st Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 978 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Cadillac CTS 1st Gen cost?
Over the last 12 months, Cadillac CTS 1st Gen sold for a median of $2,950 across 7 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $2,581 and $4,375. There are 978 currently for sale.
How many Cadillac CTS 1st Gen listings are for sale right now?
There are 978 Cadillac CTS 1st Gen listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.