2003 Chevrolet SS vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet SS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet SS would be higher. At 6,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SS (430 HP) has 292 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (138 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SS should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SS weights approximately 111 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet SS 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 2003 Chevrolet SS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2003 Chevrolet SS (583 Nm) has 384 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2003 Chevrolet SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SS | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | SS | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6000 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 430 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 583 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 65 L |
