1996 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2002 Kia Optima
To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette (325 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 91 kg more than 2002 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Chevrolet Corvette 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 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Chevrolet Corvette (461 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 1996 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette has automatic transmission and 2002 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2002 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Corvette | 2002 Kia Optima | |
Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
Model | Corvette | Optima |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5733 cc | 2497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 325 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 461 Nm | 216 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1523 kg | 1432 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |