1998 Ford Contour vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 15 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (197 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Optima weights approximately 43 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. 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, 2013 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Contour | Optima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
