1996 Buick Roadmaster vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Buick Roadmaster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Buick Roadmaster would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Buick Roadmaster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Buick Roadmaster (256 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Roadmaster should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 1996 Buick Roadmaster 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 1996 Buick Roadmaster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1996 Buick Roadmaster (447 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Buick Roadmaster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 1996 Buick Roadmaster has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Buick Roadmaster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Buick Roadmaster | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | Buick | Kia |
Model | Roadmaster | Optima |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5733 cc | 2359 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 256 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 447 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5490 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2730 mm |