2002 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Ford Falcon
To start off, 2012 Ford Falcon is newer by 10 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 3,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Falcon (261 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Falcon weights approximately 272 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 2012 Ford Falcon 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 2012 Ford Falcon. 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, 2012 Ford Falcon (391 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 2012 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima. 2012 Ford Falcon 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. 2012 Ford Falcon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Optima | 2012 Ford Falcon | |
| Make | Kia | Ford |
| Model | Optima | Falcon |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 391 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 1704 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4967 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1868 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1433 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2838 mm |
