2000 Cadillac Catera vs. 2002 Kia Optima
To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Cadillac Catera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Cadillac Catera would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Cadillac Catera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Cadillac Catera (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Cadillac Catera should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Cadillac Catera weights approximately 314 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 2000 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 2000 Cadillac Catera. 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, 2000 Cadillac Catera (260 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 2000 Cadillac Catera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima. 2000 Cadillac Catera has automatic transmission and 2002 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2002 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Cadillac Catera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Cadillac Catera | 2002 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Cadillac | Kia |
| Model | Catera | Optima |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1746 kg | 1432 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2710 mm |
