2001 Saturn L vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 2001 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2001 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 200 kg more than 2001 Saturn L. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Saturn L. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2001 Saturn L has manual transmission. 2001 Saturn L will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Saturn L | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Saturn | Kia |
Model | L | Optima |
Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 274 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 199 Nm | 364 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 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 | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |