2004 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Toyota Cresta
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota Cresta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Cresta would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Cresta. (158 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Cresta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 143 kg more than 1996 Toyota Cresta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Toyota Cresta is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Toyota Cresta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (245 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Cresta. (200 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Cresta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1996 Toyota Cresta | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Optima | Cresta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
