1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 789 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2006 Kia Optima | |
Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
Model | Cavalier | Optima |
Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2189 cc | 2360 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 199 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 2004 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 65 L |