2003 Ford Mustang vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 3 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 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (188 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 78 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, 2006 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 (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Mustang | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Mustang | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3801 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 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 | 45 L | 65 L |
