1998 Ford Ka vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Ka would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1998 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 574 kg more than 1998 Ford Ka. 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 Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Ka | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Ford | Kia |
Model | Ka | Optima |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1454 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 70 L |