2009 Hyundai Sonata 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 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Hyundai Sonata 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 71 more horse power than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 36 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
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 @ 4250 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Sonata. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2009 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2009 Hyundai Sonata 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:
2009 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Hyundai | Kia |
Model | Sonata | Optima |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 178 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 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 | 1498 kg | 1462 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |