1998 Ford Laser vs. 2005 Kia Optima
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Laser would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1998 Ford Laser. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 342 kg more than 1998 Ford Laser. 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, 2005 Kia Optima (241 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Laser. (168 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Laser | 2005 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Laser | Optima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 65 L |
