2006 Kia Optima vs. 2007 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Kia Optima would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 158 kg more than 2006 Kia Optima. 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, 2007 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2007 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Kia | Hyundai |
| Model | Optima | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 10.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
