1996 Ford Scorpio vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Scorpio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Scorpio would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Scorpio (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Scorpio should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 109 kg more than 1996 Ford Scorpio.
Because 1996 Ford Scorpio 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 Scorpio. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Scorpio (202 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Scorpio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Scorpio | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Scorpio | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
