2009 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2012 Saab 03-Sep 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Saab 03-Sep (220 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 81 kg more than 2009 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Saab 03-Sep (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2012 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2012 Saab 03-Sep 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 | 2012 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Kia | Saab |
| Model | Optima | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1600 kg |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.6 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.9 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 61 L |
