1998 Ford Focus vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Forte (156 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Forte weights approximately 95 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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 Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2012 Kia Forte has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Forte will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2012 Kia Forte | |
Make | Ford | Kia |
Model | Focus | Forte |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 195 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1241 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4481 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1765 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2649 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |