2007 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lotus Exige. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lotus Exige would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Exige (175 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2007 Kia Optima. (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 2007 Kia Optima.
Because 2003 Lotus Exige 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 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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 Kia Optima (222 Nm @ 4260 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lotus Exige. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lotus Exige.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Optima | 2003 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Optima | Exige |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4260 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 36 L |
