2004 Kia Optima vs. 2011 Cadillac STS
To start off, 2011 Cadillac STS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Optima would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac STS weights approximately 315 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 2011 Cadillac STS 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 2011 Cadillac STS. 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, 2011 Cadillac STS (368 Nm) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 2011 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2011 Cadillac STS | |
| Make | Kia | Cadillac |
| Model | Optima | STS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 368 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1802 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1844 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2957 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.7 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 64 L |
