2002 Kia Optima vs. 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII
To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII weights approximately 2325 kg more than 2002 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII (386 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima. 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII has automatic transmission and 2002 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2002 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Optima | 1994 Lincoln Mark VIII | |
| Make | Kia | Lincoln |
| Model | Optima | Mark VIII |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 3757 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5255 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1895 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1361 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |
