2003 Honda Element vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 8 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 2,352 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2003 Honda Element. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Honda Element weights approximately 95 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Honda Element. (216 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Honda Element | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Honda | Kia |
| Model | Element | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2352 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
