1995 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Kia Optima
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Ford Thunderbird (230 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 117 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Ford Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1995 Ford Thunderbird (447 Nm) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 1995 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Thunderbird | Optima |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1604 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2640 mm |
