2006 Kia Optima vs. 2001 Pontiac Aztek
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Aztek. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Aztek would be higher. At 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Aztek is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Aztek (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Aztek should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 290 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Aztek.
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, 2001 Pontiac Aztek (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Aztek will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2001 Pontiac Aztek | |
| Make | Kia | Pontiac |
| Model | Optima | Aztek |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1714 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
