2008 Chevrolet Express vs. 2002 Kia Optima
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Express is newer by 6 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Express (279 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Kia Optima weights approximately 357 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Express.
Because 2008 Chevrolet Express 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 2008 Chevrolet Express. 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, 2008 Chevrolet Express (399 Nm) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 2008 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima. 2008 Chevrolet Express 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. 2008 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Express | 2002 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Express | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4800 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 279 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1432 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6210 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2090 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3940 mm | 2710 mm |
