2004 Kia Optima vs. 2008 Kia Sportage
To start off, 2008 Kia Sportage is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Sportage (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Sportage weights approximately 182 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage 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, 2008 Kia Sportage (241 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2008 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2008 Kia Sportage | |
| Make | Kia | Kia |
| Model | Optima | Sportage |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 86.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
