2003 Kia Sorento vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Kia Sorento. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Kia Sorento would be higher. At 3,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Kia Sorento. (192 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Kia Sorento. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Sorento weights approximately 536 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2003 Kia Sorento is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Kia Sorento will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Kia Sorento (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima. 2003 Kia Sorento has automatic transmission and 2012 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2012 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Kia Sorento | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Kia | Kia |
Model | Sorento | Optima |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3489 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 192 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1454 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |