1996 Kia Sephia vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Kia Sephia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Kia Sephia would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1996 Kia Sephia. (79 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Kia Sephia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1996 Kia Sephia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (576 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 456 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Kia Sephia. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Kia Sephia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Kia Sephia | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sephia | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
