2004 Kia Optima vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 22 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (360 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
