2009 Dodge Sprinter vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Dodge Sprinter. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Dodge Sprinter would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Sprinter is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Sprinter. (154 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Sprinter. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Sprinter weights approximately 237 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2009 Dodge Sprinter 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 2009 Dodge Sprinter. 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, 2009 Dodge Sprinter (380 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Sprinter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima. 2009 Dodge Sprinter has automatic transmission and 2012 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2012 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Sprinter will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Sprinter | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Dodge | Kia |
| Model | Sprinter | Optima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6950 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2740 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4330 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 70 L |
