2009 Kia Spectra vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 1 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Spectra weights approximately 183 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
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 Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Spectra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.4 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
