2005 Kia Optima vs. 2011 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2011 Dodge Nitro is newer by 6 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Nitro (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 335 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Dodge Nitro is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Dodge Nitro (359 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2011 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2011 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Kia | Dodge |
| Model | Optima | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1832 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4544 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1791 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2764 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 74 L |
