2005 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Subaru Impreza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Subaru Impreza would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1996 Subaru Impreza. (90 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 492 kg more than 1996 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Subaru Impreza 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, 2005 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Subaru Impreza. (128 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Subaru Impreza.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 1996 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Kia | Subaru |
| Model | Optima | Impreza |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 60 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
