1998 Honda Accord vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda Accord would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 Honda Accord. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 122 kg more than 1998 Honda Accord. 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, 2004 Kia Optima (245 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda Accord. (184 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda Accord | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Honda | Kia |
| Model | Accord | Optima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
