2004 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Subaru Baja
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru Baja. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Baja would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Baja is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Baja (164 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Baja should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Baja weights approximately 31 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.
Because 2003 Subaru Baja 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, 2003 Subaru Baja 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, 2003 Subaru Baja (225 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2003 Subaru Baja will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2003 Subaru Baja | |
| Make | Kia | Subaru |
| Model | Optima | Baja |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2660 mm |
