2006 Kia Optima vs. 2008 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2008 TVR Chimaera is newer by 2 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 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 TVR Chimaera (281 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 273 kg more than 2008 TVR Chimaera.
Because 2008 TVR Chimaera 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 2008 TVR Chimaera. 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, 2008 TVR Chimaera (390 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2008 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Kia | TVR |
| Model | Optima | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 4546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 14.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
