2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Kia Carens
To start off, 2011 Kia Carens is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2011 Kia Carens. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Carens. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 154 kg more than 2011 Kia Carens. 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, 2011 Kia Carens (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Carens will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2011 Kia Carens | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 3 | Carens |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 17.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1631 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
