2005 Chevrolet Spark 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 Chevrolet Spark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chevrolet Spark would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Spark. (51 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Spark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 686 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Spark. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Spark. (70 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Spark. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2005 Chevrolet Spark has manual transmission. 2005 Chevrolet Spark 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 Chevrolet Spark | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Spark | Optima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 2400 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4250 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 | 776 kg | 1462 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 70 L |
