2008 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Kia Optima

To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3.

Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Audi A3 2009 Kia Optima
Make Audi Kia
Model A3 Optima
Year Released 2008 2009
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1966 cc 2359 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 229 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 10.1:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4810 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 5.9 L/100km 9.6 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 62 L