1987 Mazda 929 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 929 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 (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 929. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 144 kg more than 1987 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mazda 929 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 1987 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 929. (184 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 929 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 929 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2183 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2797 mm |
