2003 Toyota Highlander vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (197 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Highlander. (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 231 kg more than 2013 Kia Optima.
Because 2003 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Highlander 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, 2013 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Highlander. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Highlander. 2003 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2013 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2013 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Toyota Highlander | 2013 Kia Optima | |
Make | Toyota | Kia |
Model | Highlander | Optima |
Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 97 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1454 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4845 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2795 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 70 L |