2004 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2012 Dodge Ram is newer by 8 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Ram (391 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 254 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Ram weights approximately 472 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 2012 Dodge Ram 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, 2012 Dodge Ram 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, 2012 Dodge Ram (552 Nm) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2012 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2012 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Kia | Dodge |
| Model | Optima | Ram |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 5654 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 391 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 552 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3560 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.2 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 98 L |
