2007 Kia Optima vs. 2005 Suzuki Baleno
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Suzuki Baleno. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Suzuki Baleno would be higher. At 2,654 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Optima (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2005 Suzuki Baleno. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2005 Suzuki Baleno. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Kia Optima weights approximately 569 kg more than 2005 Suzuki Baleno. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 Kia Optima (247 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Suzuki Baleno. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Suzuki Baleno. 2007 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2005 Suzuki Baleno has manual transmission. 2005 Suzuki Baleno will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Optima | 2005 Suzuki Baleno | |
| Make | Kia | Suzuki |
| Model | Optima | Baleno |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2654 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 247 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 918 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2490 mm |
