2006 Kia Optima vs. 2001 Mazda 6
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 6. (139 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 138 kg more than 2001 Mazda 6. 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 (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2001 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | 6 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1350 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 Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 64 L |
