2002 Kia Optima vs. 2009 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2009 Toyota Corolla is newer by 7 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, 2002 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Corolla. (132 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 252 kg more than 2002 Kia Optima.
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, 2002 Kia Optima (216 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Corolla. (174 Nm). This means 2002 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Corolla. 2009 Toyota Corolla 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. 2009 Toyota Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Optima | 2009 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Optima | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 1684 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
