1996 Ford Contour vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 246 kg more than 1996 Ford Contour. 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, 2006 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Contour | 2006 Kia Optima | |
Make | Ford | Kia |
Model | Contour | Optima |
Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2360 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 199 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 86.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 100 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1488 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |