2009 Kia Optima vs. 2005 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 73 kg more than 2005 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 2005 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (354 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2005 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2005 Nissan 350Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2005 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Optima | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.6 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.9 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
