1996 Fiat Palio vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Palio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Palio would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Palio. (92 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Palio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 608 kg more than 1996 Fiat Palio. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Palio. (127 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Palio. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat Palio has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat Palio 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:
| 1996 Fiat Palio | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Fiat | Kia |
| Model | Palio | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1581 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 92 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 65 L |
