2006 Kia Optima vs. 2004 Chevrolet Prizm
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chevrolet Prizm 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 47 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 398 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Prizm. 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 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2004 Chevrolet Prizm | |
| Make | Kia | Chevrolet |
| Model | Optima | Prizm |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
