2003 Kia Opirus vs. 2008 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2008 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 5 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 3,725 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda CX-9 (270 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2003 Kia Opirus. (196 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2003 Kia Opirus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Opirus weights approximately 431 kg more than 2008 Mazda CX-9.
Because 2008 Mazda CX-9 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Kia Opirus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-9 will offer significantly more control. 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 CX-9 (370 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Kia Opirus. (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Kia Opirus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Kia Opirus | 2008 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Opirus | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 3725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2880 mm |
