2009 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 29 kg more than 2003 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 2003 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 | 2003 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Optima | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.6 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.4 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 76 L |
