2006 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Kia Optima 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 22 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 187 kg more than 2012 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, 2006 Kia Optima (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Kia Optima | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Kia | Mazda |
Model | Optima | 3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 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 | 1487 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |