2006 Kia Carens vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Kia Carens. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Kia Carens would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 2006 Kia Carens. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Carens. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Carens weights approximately 465 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Carens. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Carens. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2006 Kia Carens has manual transmission. 2006 Kia Carens will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Carens | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Kia | Kia |
| Model | Carens | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
