2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 275 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Mazda | Kia |
Model | 3 | Optima |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 274 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 364 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |