2009 Kia Optima vs. 1955 Peugeot 203
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Peugeot 203. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Peugeot 203 would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1955 Peugeot 203. (44 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1955 Peugeot 203.
Because 1955 Peugeot 203 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 1955 Peugeot 203. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Peugeot 203. (80 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Peugeot 203.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1955 Peugeot 203 | |
| Make | Kia | Peugeot |
| Model | Optima | 203 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
