2009 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma 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 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. (115 HP @ 5190 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma.
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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma | |
| Make | Kia | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Optima | Carisma |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1834 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 | 5190 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
