2006 Kia Sportage vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2006 Kia Sportage is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Sportage (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Sportage weights approximately 56 kg more than 2003 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 Sportage (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Sportage | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sportage | 6 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 64 L |
