1998 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1998 Ford Mustang. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Mustang.
Because 1998 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Ford Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Mustang | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | Ford | Kia |
Model | Mustang | Optima |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3797 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 91 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 96 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |