1996 Ford Probe vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (197 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 Ford Probe. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Optima weights approximately 224 kg more than 1996 Ford Probe. 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, 2013 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Probe | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Probe | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 97 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
