2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 455 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 2 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
