2008 Fiat Panda 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 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Panda. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 519 kg more than 2008 Fiat Panda. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (252 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Panda. (180 Nm). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Panda | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Fiat | Kia |
| Model | Panda | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 70 L |
