2004 Kia Optima vs. 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 498 kg more than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2004 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (152 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Kia Optima | 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Kia | Mazda |
Model | Optima | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2004 | 1994 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 137 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 199 Nm | 152 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 48 L |