2009 Kia Optima vs. 2004 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2004 Toyota Highlander. (148 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2004 Toyota Highlander.
Because 2004 Toyota Highlander 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, 2004 Toyota Highlander 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Toyota Highlander. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Toyota Highlander. 2004 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 2004 Toyota Highlander | |
Make | Kia | Toyota |
Model | Optima | Highlander |
Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2360 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1690 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 7.5 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 73 L |