2006 Kia Optima vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, both 2006 Kia Optima and 2006 Mazda 3 were released in the same year (2006). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 870 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, 2006 Kia Optima, 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, 2006 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
