2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2013 Kia Optima. (197 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2013 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 192 kg more than 2013 Kia Optima. 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Hyundai | Kia |
| Model | Sonata | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 97 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
