1958 Ford Zodiac vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1958 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 295 kg more than 1958 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Ford Zodiac 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 1958 Ford Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Kia Optima (245 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Ford Zodiac. (187 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Ford Zodiac.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Ford Zodiac | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Zodiac | Optima |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2550 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
