2006 Kia Optima vs. 1987 Mazda 929
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 929. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 178 kg more than 1987 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mazda 929 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 1987 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 929. (184 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1987 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | 929 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2183 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
