2005 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 317 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Cavalier | Optima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
