2006 Kia Sportage vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Kia Sportage. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Kia Sportage would be higher. At 2,655 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Sportage (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Sportage weights approximately 818 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Kia Sportage will offer significantly more control. 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 (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Sportage | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sportage | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2655 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
