2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Kia Forte
To start off, 2009 Kia Forte is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Forte (156 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (150 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 2009 Kia Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2009 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 3 | Forte |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2000 cc |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.7 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
