2009 Kia Optima vs. 1998 Toyota Camry
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Toyota Camry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Toyota Camry 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 38 more horse power than 1998 Toyota Camry. (135 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Toyota Camry.
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, 1998 Toyota Camry (196 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Toyota Camry will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1998 Toyota Camry | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Optima | Camry |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2164 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
