2011 Subaru Outback vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2011 Subaru Outback. (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2011 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Subaru Outback weights approximately 82 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2011 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Subaru Outback 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Subaru Outback. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Subaru Outback | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Subaru | Kia |
| Model | Outback | Optima |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | CVT | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1821 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1669 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2741 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.1 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
