2003 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. (267 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 55 kg more than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer significantly more control. 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Optima. (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Optima. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Kia |
| Model | Lancer | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 267 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 70 L |
