2007 Cadillac STS vs. 2002 Kia Optima
To start off, 2007 Cadillac STS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Kia Optima would be higher. At 3,556 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Cadillac STS (255 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima.
Because 2007 Cadillac STS 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 2007 Cadillac STS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2007 Cadillac STS (342 Nm) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 2007 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima. 2007 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 2002 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2002 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Cadillac STS | 2002 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Cadillac | Kia |
| Model | STS | Optima |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3556 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 342 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2710 mm |
