2005 Kia Optima vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Saturn L 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 3 more horse power than 2004 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 177 kg more than 2004 Saturn L. 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, both vehicles can yield 199 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | Kia | Saturn |
| Model | Optima | L |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
