1998 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour.
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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | Ford | Kia |
Model | Contour | Optima |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2359 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |