2002 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 2005 Kia Optima
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chevrolet Prizm would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 397 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. 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, 2005 Kia Optima (241 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Prizm | 2005 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Prizm | Optima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
