2011 Kia Sportage vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Kia Sportage. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Kia Sportage would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Sportage (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Sportage. (358 Nm @ 1850 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Sportage. 2011 Kia Sportage has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Sportage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2011 Kia Sportage | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Kia | Mazda |
Model | Sportage | 3 |
Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2184 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 358 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1854 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1636 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |