1998 Mitsubishi Diamante vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante. (238 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante weights approximately 12 kg more than 2013 Kia Optima.
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, 2013 Kia Optima (365 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante. (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Kia |
| Model | Diamante | Optima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1538 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2795 mm |
