2006 Kia Optima vs. 1991 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 563 kg more than 1991 Mazda 323. 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, 2006 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1991 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
