2009 Kia Optima vs. 1993 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Toyota Corolla 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 60 more horse power than 1993 Toyota Corolla. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1993 Toyota Corolla.
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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Toyota Corolla. (150 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Toyota Corolla. 1993 Toyota Corolla has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1993 Toyota Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1993 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Optima | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1707 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
