2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 10 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (197 HP) has 116 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Optima weights approximately 374 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, 2013 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (141 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 2 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 97 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
