1997 Toyota Corolla vs. 2010 Kia Optima
To start off, 2010 Kia Optima is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Kia Optima weights approximately 285 kg more than 1997 Toyota Corolla. 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, 2010 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (145 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2010 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Toyota Corolla | 2010 Kia Optima | |
Make | Toyota | Kia |
Model | Corolla | Optima |
Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1586 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4801 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1806 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1481 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2720 mm |