2006 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Vauxhall VX220
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Vauxhall VX220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Vauxhall VX220 would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Vauxhall VX220 (146 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall VX220 should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 1134 kg more than 2003 Vauxhall VX220.
Because 2003 Vauxhall VX220 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 2003 Vauxhall VX220. 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, 2003 Vauxhall VX220 (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Vauxhall VX220 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2003 Vauxhall VX220 | |
| Make | Kia | Vauxhall |
| Model | Optima | VX220 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |
