2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Kia Forte
To start off, 2011 Kia Forte is newer by 5 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), 2011 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Forte (156 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Forte weights approximately 104 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Kia Forte, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Kia Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 3 | Forte |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1238 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
