1998 Buick LeSabre vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick LeSabre (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 3 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima. 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, 1998 Buick LeSabre (312 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 1998 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Buick LeSabre | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Buick | Kia |
| Model | LeSabre | Optima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 65 L |
