2008 Isuzu Ascender 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 Isuzu Ascender. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Isuzu Ascender would be higher. At 4,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Isuzu Ascender is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Isuzu Ascender (285 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Isuzu Ascender should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 2008 Isuzu Ascender 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 Isuzu Ascender 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 Isuzu Ascender (374 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Isuzu Ascender will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2008 Isuzu Ascender 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 Isuzu Ascender will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Isuzu Ascender | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Isuzu | Kia |
| Model | Ascender | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 374 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 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 | 4870 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 62 L |
