2000 Saab 03-Sep vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2000 Saab 03-Sep. (129 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2000 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 225 kg more than 2000 Saab 03-Sep. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Saab 03-Sep. (177 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Saab 03-Sep. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2000 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2000 Saab 03-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Saab 03-Sep | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Saab | Kia |
| Model | 03-Sep | Optima |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
