2008 Kia Sportage vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Kia Sportage is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Sportage (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Sportage weights approximately 547 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Kia Sportage (245 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Sportage | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sportage | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1687 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
