2005 Kia Optima vs. 1999 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Subaru Forester. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Subaru Forester would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1999 Subaru Forester. (168 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1999 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 27 kg more than 1999 Subaru Forester. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Subaru Forester 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, 1999 Subaru Forester 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 (245 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Subaru Forester. (240 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Subaru Forester.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 1999 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Kia | Subaru |
| Model | Optima | Forester |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2530 mm |
