1996 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mustang (350 HP) has 150 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 109 kg more than 1996 Ford Mustang.
Because 1996 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. 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, 1996 Ford Mustang (556 Nm) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (252 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Mustang | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Mustang | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 556 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2797 mm |
