2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (230 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 385 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima. 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (333 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chrysler | Kia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 65 L |
