1995 Mazda RX-01 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda RX-01. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda RX-01 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1995 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1995 Mazda RX-01. (220 HP @ 8500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda RX-01. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 435 kg more than 1995 Mazda RX-01. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Mazda RX-01 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 Mazda RX-01. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda RX-01. (216 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda RX-01. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1995 Mazda RX-01 has manual transmission. 1995 Mazda RX-01 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda RX-01 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | RX-01 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2614 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
