2006 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix. (158 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 18 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix. 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, 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Kia | Pontiac |
| Model | Optima | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 3134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 76 L |
