2004 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Mazda Levante
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda Levante. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda Levante would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Mazda Levante. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda Levante. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 227 kg more than 1996 Mazda Levante. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mazda Levante is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda Levante will offer significantly more control. 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 (245 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda Levante. (190 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda Levante.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1996 Mazda Levante | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | Levante |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2230 mm |
