2009 Kia Rondo vs. 2005 Mazda Marathon
To start off, 2009 Kia Rondo is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda Marathon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda Marathon would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Rondo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Rondo (198 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rondo should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Marathon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Marathon weights approximately 232 kg more than 2009 Kia Rondo.
Because 2005 Mazda Marathon is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mazda Marathon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rondo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Rondo (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Rondo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda Marathon. 2009 Kia Rondo has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda Marathon has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda Marathon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Rondo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rondo | 2005 Mazda Marathon | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rondo | Marathon |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Van |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 2260 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 10 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1517 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 76 L |
