2009 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Toyota Century
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Century would be higher. At 3,995 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Toyota Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Century. (153 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Century.
Because 1996 Toyota Century 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 1996 Toyota Century. 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, 1996 Toyota Century (289 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Toyota Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 1996 Toyota Century | |
Make | Kia | Toyota |
Model | Optima | Century |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2359 cc | 3995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 176 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 289 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2870 mm |