2006 Hyundai Elantra 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 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Hyundai Elantra 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 28 more horse power than 2006 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 102 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Hyundai Elantra. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Elantra | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Hyundai | Kia |
| Model | Elantra | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 6.9 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.7 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
