2009 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Express is newer by 3 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 6,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Express (260 HP @ 3100 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Express 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 2012 Chevrolet Express. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Express (711 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 482 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2012 Chevrolet Express 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. 2012 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2012 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | Kia | Chevrolet |
| Model | Optima | Express |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 6600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 711 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5692 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2012 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 2070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3429 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 117 L |
