2009 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander (230 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
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, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander (291 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 Mitsubishi Outlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander | |
| Make | Kia | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Optima | Outlander |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4666 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.5 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |
