2009 Kia Optima vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, both 2009 Kia Optima and 2009 Mazda 3 were released in the same year (2009). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 294 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 Kia Optima (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.4 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
