2007 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,654 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Optima (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Kia Optima weights approximately 142 kg more than 1996 Nissan Maxima. 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, 2007 Kia Optima (247 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Maxima. 2007 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1996 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1996 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Optima | 1996 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Optima | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2654 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 247 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
