2005 Ford Explorer vs. 2002 Kia Optima

To start off, 2005 Ford Explorer is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Kia Optima would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Explorer (203 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Kia Optima weights approximately 152 kg more than 2005 Ford Explorer.

Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer 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, 2005 Ford Explorer (345 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Ford Explorer 2002 Kia Optima
Make Ford Kia
Model Explorer Optima
Year Released 2005 2002
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4015 cc 2497 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 203 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 345 Nm 216 Nm
Drive Type 4WD Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1280 kg 1432 kg
Vehicle Length 4820 mm 4740 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1820 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2780 mm 2710 mm


 

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