2004 Kia Sephia II vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Sephia II. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Sephia II would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2004 Kia Sephia II. (79 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Sephia II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2004 Kia Sephia II. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Sephia II. (122 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Sephia II.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Sephia II | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sephia II | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
