2004 Kia Optima vs. 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette would be higher. At 3,349 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette (183 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette weights approximately 257 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima. 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, 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette (285 Nm) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette | |
| Make | Kia | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Optima | Silhouette |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 3349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |
