1996 Mazda Sentia vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda Sentia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda Sentia would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mazda Sentia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1996 Mazda Sentia. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda Sentia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda Sentia weights approximately 31 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
Because 1996 Mazda Sentia 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 Mazda Sentia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda Sentia. (245 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda Sentia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda Sentia | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | Sentia | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2954 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1566 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2797 mm |
