2005 Kia Rio vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Kia Rio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Kia Rio 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 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2005 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2005 Kia Rio. 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 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Rio. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Rio | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
