2012 Kia Optima vs. 2004 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Pontiac Vibe would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. (122 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 310 kg more than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Pontiac Vibe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Vibe 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 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Pontiac Vibe.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Kia Optima | 2004 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Kia | Pontiac |
| Model | Optima | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 274 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4844 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1831 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1455 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2797 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
