2007 Dodge Nitro vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Dodge Nitro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Dodge Nitro would be higher. At 2,768 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2007 Dodge Nitro. (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2007 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 325 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2007 Dodge Nitro 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, 2007 Dodge Nitro 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, 2007 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2007 Dodge Nitro has manual transmission. 2007 Dodge Nitro 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:
| 2007 Dodge Nitro | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Dodge | Kia |
| Model | Nitro | Optima |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2768 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1860 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
