2006 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 6 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 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 540 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
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 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Kia | Audi |
| Model | Optima | A3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
