1998 Mazda 121 vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 592 kg more than 1998 Mazda 121. 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, 2011 Kia Optima (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 121 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 121 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2797 mm |
