2009 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Subaru Legacy
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru Legacy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Legacy would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (162 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Legacy.
Because 2003 Subaru Legacy 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 Subaru Legacy 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Legacy.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2003 Subaru Legacy | |
| Make | Kia | Subaru |
| Model | Optima | Legacy |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 64 L |
