2004 Kia Spectra vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Spectra (124 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Spectra weights approximately 32 kg more than 2007 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, 2004 Kia Spectra (161 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (146 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Spectra | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Spectra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
