2003 Mazda 6 vs. 2011 Kia Sorento
To start off, 2011 Kia Sorento is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Sorento (276 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Sorento weights approximately 387 kg more than 2003 Mazda 6. 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 Sorento (336 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6. 2011 Kia Sorento has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 2011 Kia Sorento | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 6 | Sorento |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1767 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4661 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1735 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 68 L |
