2006 SsangYong Kyron 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 SsangYong Kyron. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 SsangYong Kyron would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2006 SsangYong Kyron. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 SsangYong Kyron. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 SsangYong Kyron weights approximately 340 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2006 SsangYong Kyron 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 2006 SsangYong Kyron. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2006 SsangYong Kyron (310 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 SsangYong Kyron will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2006 SsangYong Kyron has manual transmission. 2006 SsangYong Kyron will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 SsangYong Kyron | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | SsangYong | Kia |
| Model | Kyron | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1923 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 65 L |
