2007 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Hyundai ix35
To start off, 2012 Hyundai ix35 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Kia Optima 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 72 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai ix35. (113 HP @ 400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai ix35. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai ix35 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2007 Kia Optima.
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, 2012 Hyundai ix35 (260 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Optima. (247 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai ix35 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Optima. 2007 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2012 Hyundai ix35 has manual transmission. 2012 Hyundai ix35 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 | 2012 Hyundai ix35 | |
| Make | Kia | Hyundai |
| Model | Optima | ix35 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2654 cc | 1685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 400 RPM |
| Torque | 247 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 77.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 17:01 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2640 mm |
