2009 Kia Optima vs. 2005 Nissan Hardbody
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 Hardbody. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan Hardbody would be higher. At 2,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Hardbody is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2005 Nissan Hardbody. (152 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2005 Nissan Hardbody.
Because 2005 Nissan Hardbody 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 Hardbody. 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Hardbody. (208 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Hardbody. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2005 Nissan Hardbody has manual transmission. 2005 Nissan Hardbody 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 Hardbody | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Optima | Hardbody |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 208 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
