2004 Kia Optima vs. 1988 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1988 Toyota Corolla. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1988 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 558 kg more than 1988 Toyota Corolla. 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, 2004 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Toyota Corolla. (100 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1988 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Optima | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
