2006 Kia Sorento vs. 2002 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Kia Sorento is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Sorento (192 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Sorento weights approximately 840 kg more than 2002 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 Sorento (294 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Sorento | 2002 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sorento | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 145 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
