1998 Holden Commodore 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 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Holden Commodore (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Holden Commodore weights approximately 178 kg more than 2002 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Holden Commodore 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 Holden Commodore. 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 Holden Commodore (304 Nm) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 1998 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Holden Commodore | 2002 Kia Optima | |
Make | Holden | Kia |
Model | Commodore | Optima |
Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3789 cc | 2497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 304 Nm | 216 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1432 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |