2004 Kia Spectra vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Spectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Spectra would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2004 Kia Spectra. (124 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 103 kg more than 2004 Kia Spectra. 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (187 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Spectra. (161 Nm). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Spectra | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Spectra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1207 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
