1996 Citroen ZX vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Citroen ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Citroen ZX would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 Citroen ZX. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Citroen ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 513 kg more than 1996 Citroen ZX. 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, 2011 Kia Optima (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Citroen ZX. (155 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Citroen ZX. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1996 Citroen ZX has manual transmission. 1996 Citroen ZX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Citroen ZX | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Citroen | Kia |
| Model | ZX | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1455 mm |
