2007 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2012 Subaru Outback 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 15 more horse power than 2012 Subaru Outback. (170 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2012 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Subaru Outback weights approximately 68 kg more than 2007 Kia Optima.
Because 2012 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback 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 Kia Optima (247 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Subaru Outback. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Subaru Outback. 2007 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2012 Subaru Outback has manual transmission. 2012 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Kia | Subaru |
| Model | Optima | Outback |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2654 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 247 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1555 kg |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
