2008 Chrysler 300 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chrysler 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chrysler 300 would be higher. At 2,736 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler 300. (190 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 283 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2008 Chrysler 300 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Chrysler 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler 300. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler 300 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chrysler | Kia |
| Model | 300 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2736 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3060 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
