2009 Kia Optima vs. 1998 Renault Laguna
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Renault Laguna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Laguna 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 (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1998 Renault Laguna. (118 HP @ 5550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Laguna.
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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Renault Laguna. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Renault Laguna. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1998 Renault Laguna has manual transmission. 1998 Renault Laguna will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1998 Renault Laguna | |
| Make | Kia | Renault |
| Model | Optima | Laguna |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5550 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
