2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Kia |
| Model | 156 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1535 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
