2002 Kia Optima vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Kia Optima would be higher. At 3,725 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (272 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 6 weights approximately 118 kg more than 2002 Kia Optima. 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, 2009 Mazda 6 (365 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima. 2009 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 2002 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2002 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Kia Optima | 2009 Mazda 6 | |
Make | Kia | Mazda |
Model | Optima | 6 |
Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 272 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 365 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |