2008 Ford Focus 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 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 322 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus. 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 (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Focus | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1213 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5770 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
