2009 Kia Optima vs. 2003 SsangYong Musso
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 SsangYong Musso. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 SsangYong Musso would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 SsangYong Musso is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 SsangYong Musso (217 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 SsangYong Musso should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 2003 SsangYong Musso is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 SsangYong Musso will offer significantly more control. 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 SsangYong Musso (317 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 SsangYong Musso 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 SsangYong Musso has manual transmission. 2003 SsangYong Musso 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 SsangYong Musso | |
| Make | Kia | SsangYong |
| Model | Optima | Musso |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 317 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
