2005 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Mazda 6
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 6. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 3 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima.
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, 2005 Kia Optima (241 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 6. (207 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2002 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | 6 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2262 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 64 L |
