2005 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Samurai 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 69 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 567 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Suzuki Samurai 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 Suzuki Samurai 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 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 1996 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Kia | Suzuki |
| Model | Optima | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2490 mm |
