1998 Lancia Kappa vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lancia Kappa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lancia Kappa would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lancia Kappa (217 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lancia Kappa should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lancia Kappa weights approximately 72 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.
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, 1998 Lancia Kappa (309 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Lancia Kappa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Lancia Kappa has manual transmission. 1998 Lancia Kappa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lancia Kappa | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Kappa | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1928 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 309 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
