2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Kia Sedona
To start off, 2012 Kia Sedona is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Kia Sedona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Sedona (271 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Sedona should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Sedona weights approximately 802 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, 2012 Kia Sedona (336 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Sedona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2012 Kia Sedona 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. 2012 Kia Sedona will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2012 Kia Sedona | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 3 | Sedona |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3500 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 1984 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5131 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1984 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1816 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
