1994 Nissan Maxima vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Nissan Maxima (168 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 263 kg more than 1994 Nissan Maxima.
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, 1994 Nissan Maxima (253 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1994 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1994 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1994 Nissan Maxima 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:
1994 Nissan Maxima | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Nissan | Kia |
Model | Maxima | Optima |
Year Released | 1994 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2960 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 166 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 253 Nm | 209 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1583 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2797 mm |