1996 Mazda 626 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 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 443 kg more than 1996 Mazda 626. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 626 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 626 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2797 mm |
