1996 De Tomaso Pantera vs. 2002 Kia Optima
To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 De Tomaso Pantera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 De Tomaso Pantera would be higher. At 5,761 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Kia Optima weights approximately 10 kg more than 1996 De Tomaso Pantera.
Because 1996 De Tomaso Pantera 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 1996 De Tomaso Pantera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1996 De Tomaso Pantera (460 Nm) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 1996 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 De Tomaso Pantera | 2002 Kia Optima | |
| Make | De Tomaso | Kia |
| Model | Pantera | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5761 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1432 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
