2003 Ford Ka vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 10 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Optima weights approximately 576 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, 2013 Kia Optima (365 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 2013 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Ka | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1538 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 70 L |
