1999 Cadillac Catera vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Cadillac Catera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Cadillac Catera would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Cadillac Catera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Cadillac Catera (301 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2011 Kia Optima. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Cadillac Catera should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 17 kg more than 1999 Cadillac Catera.
Because 1999 Cadillac Catera 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 1999 Cadillac Catera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1999 Cadillac Catera (370 Nm) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Optima. (209 Nm). This means 1999 Cadillac Catera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Cadillac Catera | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Cadillac | Kia |
| Model | Catera | Optima |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1566 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 65 L |
