1999 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2009 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Contour | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Contour | Optima |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 62 L |
