1985 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Escort | Optima |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2797 mm |
