2004 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 409 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
