2006 Kia Optima vs. 2004 Noble M12
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Noble M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Noble M12 would be higher. At 2,968 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Noble M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Noble M12 (335 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Noble M12 should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 438 kg more than 2004 Noble M12.
Because 2004 Noble M12 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 2004 Noble M12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2004 Noble M12 (486 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Noble M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2004 Noble M12 | |
| Make | Kia | Noble |
| Model | Optima | M12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 486 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
