1990 Ford Probe vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1990 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 238 kg more than 1990 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Kia Optima (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Probe | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Probe | Optima |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
