1999 Kia Elan vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 149 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 717 kg more than 1999 Kia Elan.
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, 2004 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Elan | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Elan | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2680 mm |
