1995 Ford Scorpio vs. 2006 Kia Optima

To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Ford Scorpio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Ford Scorpio would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1995 Ford Scorpio. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1995 Ford Scorpio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 764 kg more than 1995 Ford Scorpio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1995 Ford Scorpio 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 1995 Ford Scorpio. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Ford Scorpio. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Ford Scorpio.

Compare all specifications:

1995 Ford Scorpio 2006 Kia Optima
Make Ford Kia
Model Scorpio Optima
Year Released 1995 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 2351 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 114 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 172 Nm 199 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83 mm 86.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92 mm 100 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1236 kg 2000 kg
Vehicle Length 4830 mm 4730 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1420 mm