1999 Toyota MR2 vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (197 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1999 Toyota MR2. (140 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1999 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Optima weights approximately 514 kg more than 1999 Toyota MR2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Toyota MR2 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 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Toyota MR2. (183 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Toyota MR2 | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Toyota | Kia |
| Model | MR2 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 70 L |
