2002 Kia Optima vs. 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
To start off, 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander is newer by 5 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, 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander (199 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander weights approximately 238 kg more than 2002 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander 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, 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander 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, 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander (303 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Optima | 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander | |
| Make | Kia | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Optima | Outlander |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 199 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 303 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
