2004 Kia Optima vs. 2001 Kia Sportage
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Kia Sportage. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Kia Sportage would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2001 Kia Sportage. (126 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2001 Kia Sportage. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 92 kg more than 2001 Kia Sportage. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Kia Sportage 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, 2004 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Kia Sportage. (175 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Kia Sportage.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2001 Kia Sportage | |
| Make | Kia | Kia |
| Model | Optima | Sportage |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2660 mm |
