1990 Ford Mustang vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Mustang 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 81 more horse power than 1990 Ford Mustang. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 237 kg more than 1990 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Ford Mustang 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 1990 Ford Mustang. 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 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Mustang. (176 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Mustang | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Mustang | Optima |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2720 mm |
