2006 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Subaru R2
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru R2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru R2 would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 1234 kg more than 2003 Subaru R2. 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 (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (58 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2003 Subaru R2 | |
| Make | Kia | Subaru |
| Model | Optima | R2 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 657 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 56 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 66.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 30 L |
