2003 Ford Mustang vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 263 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 8 kg more than 2003 Ford Mustang.
Because 2003 Ford Mustang 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 2003 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (556 Nm) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Mustang | 2004 Kia Optima | |
Make | Ford | Kia |
Model | Mustang | Optima |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4599 cc | 2360 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 400 HP | 137 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 556 Nm | 199 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 87.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 100 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1488 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 65 L |