2006 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Scion tC
To start off, 2012 Scion tC 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 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Scion tC (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 100 kg more than 2012 Scion tC.
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, 2006 Kia Optima (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Scion tC. (234 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Scion tC.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2012 Scion tC | |
| Make | Kia | Scion |
| Model | Optima | tC |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1388 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
