2003 Ford Ka vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Ka would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 394 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. 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, 2011 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Ka | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
