2009 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Rover 45
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Rover 45. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Rover 45 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 74 more horse power than 2003 Rover 45. (102 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Rover 45.
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 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Rover 45. (123 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Rover 45. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2003 Rover 45 has manual transmission. 2003 Rover 45 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 Rover 45 | |
| Make | Kia | Rover |
| Model | Optima | 45 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 54 L |
