2005 Kia Spectra vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Kia Spectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Kia Spectra would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Spectra weights approximately 70 kg more than 2006 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, 2005 Kia Spectra (184 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (124 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Spectra | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Spectra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
