2009 Mazda B2300 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda B2300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda B2300 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2009 Mazda B2300. (143 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda B2300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 623 kg more than 2009 Mazda B2300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda B2300 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 2009 Mazda B2300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, both vehicles can yield 209 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda B2300 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda B2300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda B2300 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | B2300 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2266 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
