2004 Kia Optima vs. 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 7 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 185 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.
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, 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe (229 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe | |
| Make | Kia | Hyundai |
| Model | Optima | Santa Fe |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1673 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4676 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.2 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
