2003 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Statesman (229 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Statesman weights approximately 238 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 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. 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 Holden Statesman (375 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 2003 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Statesman | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Holden | Kia |
| Model | Statesman | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 375 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2720 mm |
