2004 Kia Optima vs. 2008 MG ZT
To start off, 2008 MG ZT 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 MG ZT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 MG ZT (256 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 MG ZT should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 MG ZT weights approximately 11 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 MG ZT is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 MG ZT. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 MG ZT (410 Nm) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2008 MG ZT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2008 MG ZT | |
| Make | Kia | MG |
| Model | Optima | ZT |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
