2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 1 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 436 kg more than 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (286 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2006 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2006 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chrysler | Kia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Optima |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1564 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 65 L |
