2007 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Rover 800
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Rover 800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Rover 800 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 11 more horse power than 1996 Rover 800. (174 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Rover 800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Kia Optima weights approximately 52 kg more than 1996 Rover 800. 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Rover 800. (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Rover 800.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Optima | 1996 Rover 800 | |
| Make | Kia | Rover |
| Model | Optima | 800 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2654 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 247 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2780 mm |
