1998 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2010 Kia Optima
To start off, 2010 Kia Optima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Kia Optima weights approximately 415 kg more than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. 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, 2010 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2010 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer. 2010 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer | 2010 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Kia |
| Model | Lancer | Optima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4801 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1481 mm |
