2003 Kia Opirus vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Kia Opirus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Kia Opirus would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Kia Opirus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Kia Opirus (196 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Kia Opirus should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Opirus weights approximately 478 kg more than 2004 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, 2003 Kia Opirus (295 Nm) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 2003 Kia Opirus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Kia Opirus | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Opirus | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1282 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2650 mm |
