1988 Ford Escort vs. 2007 Kia Optima
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Optima (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1988 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1988 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, 2007 Kia Optima (222 Nm @ 4260 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Escort. (145 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Escort | 2007 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Escort | Optima |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4260 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2730 mm |
