2004 Kia Optima vs. 1988 Ford Falcon
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,949 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Falcon (161 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 119 kg more than 1988 Ford Falcon.
Because 1988 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 1988 Ford Falcon. 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, 1988 Ford Falcon (311 Nm) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 1988 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1988 Ford Falcon | |
| Make | Kia | Ford |
| Model | Optima | Falcon |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 3949 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2800 mm |
