2008 Kia Sportage vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2008 Kia Sportage is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 1,974 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Sportage (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Sportage weights approximately 492 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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, 2008 Kia Sportage (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Sportage | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sportage | 2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1974 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 71.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1542 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 45 L |
