2006 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 52 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 267 kg more than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. 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 (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. (176 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Kia | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Optima | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.8 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
