1997 Ferrari F355 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ferrari F355. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ferrari F355 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ferrari F355 (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (274 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 185 kg more than 1997 Ferrari F355.
Because 1997 Ferrari F355 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 1997 Ferrari F355. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ferrari F355. (363 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ferrari F355. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1997 Ferrari F355 has manual transmission. 1997 Ferrari F355 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:
| 1997 Ferrari F355 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ferrari | Kia |
| Model | F355 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 70 L |
