2009 Kia Optima vs. 2011 Honda Civic
To start off, 2011 Honda Civic is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2011 Honda Civic. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2011 Honda Civic.
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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Honda Civic. (127 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Honda Civic. 2011 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2011 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Kia | Honda |
| Model | Optima | Civic |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1339 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
