2008 Kia Spectra5 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra5 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Kia Spectra5. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Spectra5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Spectra5 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Spectra5. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Spectra5. 2003 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Kia Spectra5 has manual transmission. 2008 Kia Spectra5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Spectra5 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Spectra5 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.2 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
