2011 Kia Optima vs. 1999 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1999 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1999 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 130 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
Because 1999 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Nissan Xterra 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, 2011 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Nissan Xterra. 1999 Nissan Xterra has automatic transmission and 2011 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2011 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Kia Optima | 1999 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Optima | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 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 Weight | 1454 kg | 1584 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4844 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1831 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1455 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2797 mm | 2660 mm |
