2006 Kia Optima vs. 1999 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Mustang (256 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 518 kg more than 1999 Ford Mustang.
Because 1999 Ford Mustang 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 1999 Ford Mustang. 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, 1999 Ford Mustang (406 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima. 1999 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 2006 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2006 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1999 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Kia | Ford |
| Model | Optima | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1482 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 59 L |
