2005 MG ZT 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 MG ZT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 MG ZT would be higher. At 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 MG ZT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 MG ZT (256 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 MG ZT should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 MG ZT weights approximately 172 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 MG ZT 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 2005 MG ZT. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2005 MG ZT (410 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 MG ZT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2005 MG ZT has manual transmission. 2005 MG ZT 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 MG ZT | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | MG | Kia |
| Model | ZT | Optima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4599 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
