2006 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 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 (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 318 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. 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 (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 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:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Audi | Kia |
| Model | A3 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
