2005 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2012 Lancia Thema is newer by 7 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lancia Thema (363 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lancia Thema weights approximately 465 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 2012 Lancia Thema 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 2012 Lancia Thema. 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, 2012 Lancia Thema (534 Nm) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2012 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2012 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Kia | Lancia |
| Model | Optima | Thema |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 363 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 534 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1962 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5044 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3053 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 72 L |
