2005 Kia Optima vs. 2006 Scion tC
To start off, 2006 Scion tC is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Scion tC. (158 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 Scion tC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 401 kg more than 2006 Scion tC. 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, 2005 Kia Optima (241 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Scion tC. (221 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Scion tC.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2006 Scion tC | |
| Make | Kia | Scion |
| Model | Optima | tC |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.9 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.9 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
