2003 Honda Element 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 Honda Element. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Honda Element would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Honda Element (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Honda Element weights approximately 142 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.
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, 2003 Honda Element (216 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2003 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Honda Element | 2004 Kia Optima | |
Make | Honda | Kia |
Model | Element | Optima |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2352 cc | 2360 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 137 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 199 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 100 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1488 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |