2006 Kia Optima vs. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am
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 Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 570 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am.
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 Grand Am (278 Nm) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 2006 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2006 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Kia Optima | 2001 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Kia | Pontiac |
Model | Optima | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2351 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 199 Nm | 278 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |