1998 Ford Laser 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 Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Laser would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1998 Ford Laser. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 404 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, 2009 Kia Optima (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Laser. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Laser. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Laser | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | Ford | Kia |
Model | Laser | Optima |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2656 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 194 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 86.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 75 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1519 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2730 mm |