2002 Hyundai Equus vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Hyundai Equus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Hyundai Equus would be higher. At 4,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Hyundai Equus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2002 Hyundai Equus. (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2002 Hyundai Equus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Hyundai Equus weights approximately 320 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2002 Hyundai Equus 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 2002 Hyundai Equus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Hyundai Equus. (271 Nm). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Hyundai Equus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Hyundai Equus | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Hyundai | Kia |
| Model | Equus | Optima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4500 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2797 mm |
