2006 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Rover 200
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Rover 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Rover 200 would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Rover 200. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Rover 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 970 kg more than 1996 Rover 200. 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 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Rover 200. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Rover 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1996 Rover 200 | |
| Make | Kia | Rover |
| Model | Optima | 200 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
