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. Both 2005 Kia Spectra and 2006 Mazda 3 are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2005 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Spectra weights approximately 73 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 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 | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1207 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
