1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 12 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 272 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, 2009 Kia Optima (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (211 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1997 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:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Cavalier | Optima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 86.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1519 kg |
| 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 |
