2006 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Lincoln LS
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lincoln LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lincoln LS would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lincoln LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lincoln LS (229 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lincoln LS should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 319 kg more than 2003 Lincoln LS.
Because 2003 Lincoln LS 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 2003 Lincoln LS. 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, 2003 Lincoln LS (298 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Lincoln LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2003 Lincoln LS | |
| Make | Kia | Lincoln |
| Model | Optima | LS |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2910 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
