2002 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2003 Subaru Impreza is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Impreza (246 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Impreza should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Kia Optima weights approximately 22 kg more than 2003 Subaru Impreza.
Because 2003 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Impreza will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Subaru Impreza (333 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 2003 Subaru Impreza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima. 2003 Subaru Impreza 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. 2003 Subaru Impreza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Optima | 2003 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Kia | Subaru |
| Model | Optima | Impreza |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 246 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 333 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
