2009 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Vauxhall Vectra would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. (100 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 29 kg more than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. (205 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2003 Vauxhall Vectra has manual transmission. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra 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 Vauxhall Vectra | |
| Make | Kia | Vauxhall |
| Model | Optima | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
