2005 Ford Ranger vs. 2009 Kia Optima

To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2005 Ford Ranger. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Ranger.

Because 2005 Ford Ranger 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 2005 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ranger. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Ranger.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Ford Ranger 2009 Kia Optima
Make Ford Kia
Model Ranger Optima
Year Released 2005 2009
Body Type Pickup Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2184 cc 2359 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 104 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 172 Nm 229 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.6:1 10.1:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Wheelbase Size 2990 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 62 L