2009 Kia Optima vs. 1997 Rover 800
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Rover 800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Rover 800 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Rover 800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1997 Rover 800. (173 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1997 Rover 800.
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, 1997 Rover 800 (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Rover 800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1997 Rover 800 | |
| Make | Kia | Rover |
| Model | Optima | 800 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2780 mm |
