2009 Kia Optima vs. 1997 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1997 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 (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (131 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 1997 Toyota Corolla | |
Make | Kia | Toyota |
Model | Optima | Corolla |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 131 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 23.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4330 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |