2009 Kia Optima vs. 2006 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Subaru Forester. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Subaru Forester would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Subaru Forester is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (176 HP) has 13 more horse power than 2006 Subaru Forester. (163 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 Subaru Forester.
Because 2006 Subaru Forester 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, 2006 Subaru Forester 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Subaru Forester. (225 Nm). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Subaru Forester.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2006 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Kia | Subaru |
| Model | Optima | Forester |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
