2006 Mitsubishi Pajero vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero would be higher. At 3,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero. (164 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 279 kg more than 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero will offer significantly more control. 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 Mitsubishi Pajero (373 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima. 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero has automatic transmission and 2012 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2012 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Kia |
| Model | Pajero | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3200 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 373 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
