2006 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Toyota Hi-Ace
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota Hi-Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Hi-Ace would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Hi-Ace. (90 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Hi-Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota Hi-Ace weights approximately 228 kg more than 2006 Kia Optima.
Because 1996 Toyota Hi-Ace is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Toyota Hi-Ace. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Hi-Ace. (226 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Hi-Ace.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1996 Toyota Hi-Ace | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Optima | Hi-Ace |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2446 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1960 mm |
