2009 Kia Optima vs. 2004 Toyota MR2
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 MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Toyota MR2 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 (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2004 Toyota MR2. (142 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2004 Toyota MR2.
Because 2004 Toyota MR2 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Toyota MR2. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2004 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Optima | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 48 L |
