Anyone drive a 2001-2003 Kia Spectra or Optima?

Question

My daughter is looking for her first car and we are finding good deals and lower mileage on Kia's - both Spectras and Optimas, years 2001 - 2003.

If you have driven one of these, please let me know if you'd buy another one. Do you know anything on crash statistics, blatant mechanical issues or anything else that should concern me?

I have heard these are good cars, but would love to hear from someone with firsthand knowledge....thanks!

Answer 1

do not buy a kia, hyundai or geo...

they are are horrible cars that break down and have a horrible resale value

espically kias they are big pieces of c**p

look in to  hondas,toyotas and nissans you do want your daughter being safe right?

Answer 2

In the 90's Kia's and Hyundai's were bad cars.

Bad clutches, engines seizing.

From 2000-2003, they started to improve and people started to notice them.

From 2003 and on, they are great cars. No common problems.

The Kia Spectra is a great first car. Cheap, easy to park, good on gas.