2009 Kia Optima vs. 1997 Mazda Sentia
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda Sentia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda Sentia would be higher. At 2,953 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda Sentia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Mazda Sentia. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda Sentia.
Because 1997 Mazda Sentia 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 1997 Mazda Sentia. 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, 1997 Mazda Sentia (245 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda Sentia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 1997 Mazda Sentia has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mazda Sentia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1997 Mazda Sentia | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | Sentia |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
