1996 Chevrolet Cavalier 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 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
Model | Cavalier | Optima |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2359 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 176 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 62 L |