2004 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercury Cougar 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 14 more horse power than 2002 Mercury Cougar. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 178 kg more than 2002 Mercury Cougar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercury Cougar. (176 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Kia Optima | 2002 Mercury Cougar | |
Make | Kia | Mercury |
Model | Optima | Cougar |
Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1982 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 137 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 199 Nm | 176 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |