2009 Honda Civic vs. 2002 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 7 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 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Civic (197 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 29 kg more than 2002 Kia Optima. 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, 2002 Kia Optima (216 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Civic. (189 Nm). This means 2002 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 2002 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Honda | Kia |
| Model | Civic | Optima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1461 kg | 1432 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
