1998 Chevrolet Camaro vs. 2002 Kia Optima

To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Camaro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Camaro would be higher. At 3,349 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Camaro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Camaro (160 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Camaro should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Kia Optima weights approximately 19 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Camaro.

Because 1998 Chevrolet Camaro 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 1998 Chevrolet Camaro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1998 Chevrolet Camaro (271 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 1998 Chevrolet Camaro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Chevrolet Camaro 2002 Kia Optima
Make Chevrolet Kia
Model Camaro Optima
Year Released 1998 2002
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3349 cc 2497 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 160 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 216 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1413 kg 1432 kg
Vehicle Length 4910 mm 4740 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2710 mm


 

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