2006 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Solstice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Solstice would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (240 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 682 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Solstice.
Because 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 2002 Pontiac Solstice. 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, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (305 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Kia Optima | 2002 Pontiac Solstice | |
Make | Kia | Pontiac |
Model | Optima | Solstice |
Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2351 cc | 2200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 199 Nm | 305 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1318 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |