1997 Chevrolet Express 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 Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (217 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 876 kg more than 2006 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 1997 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (379 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Express | Optima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 379 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2364 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2710 mm |
