1996 Ford Ranger vs. 2007 Kia Optima
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Optima (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ranger.
Because 1996 Ford Ranger 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 Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Kia Optima (222 Nm @ 4260 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ranger. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ranger | 2007 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Ranger | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4260 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
