2002 Kia Optima vs. 2011 Ford E-250

To start off, 2011 Ford E-250 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Kia Optima would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Ford E-250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford E-250 (225 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford E-250 should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford E-250 weights approximately 978 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 2011 Ford E-250 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 2011 Ford E-250. 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, 2011 Ford E-250 (387 Nm) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 2011 Ford E-250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima. 2011 Ford E-250 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. 2011 Ford E-250 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Kia Optima 2011 Ford E-250
Make Kia Ford
Model Optima E-250
Year Released 2002 2011
Body Type Sedan Van
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 4600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 138 HP 225 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 216 Nm 387 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1432 kg 2410 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 5504 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 2017 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 2154 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 3505 mm