Vehicle price comparison
Ford Mustang vs Kia Optima Radiator prices
Price face-off
Median price comparison
Condition comparison
How does the price differ by part grade?
Market analysis
Why does the Ford Mustang radiator cost more?
A used Ford Mustang radiator carries a median asking price of $165, which is 13% higher than the Kia Optima at $146. Supply also plays a role: Ford Mustang has 1,472 priced listings versus 1,116 for Kia Optima, and more listings generally mean more choices and more competitive pricing.
The Ford Mustang average ($191) runs 16% above its median ($165), indicating a tail of high-priced listings — likely low-mileage or remanufactured units pulling the average up.
Our guide covers 10 model years for the Ford Mustang (2015–2025) but only 4 for the Kia Optima (2015–2020), so the Ford Mustang data reflects a broader range of generations.
The Kia Optima radiator is interchangeable across 15 model years versus just 11 for the Ford Mustang — that wider compatibility window means more donor vehicles in salvage yards and tends to push prices lower.
At Grade B (good) condition, the Ford Mustang is 28% cheaper ($125 vs $173) — the gap narrows compared to the overall median difference.
Buyer's checklist
What to check before buying a used radiator
- Inspect for bent or crushed fins — minor cosmetic bending is OK, but large crushed sections reduce cooling capacity.
- Check both tanks (top and bottom) for cracks, especially along the crimped seams on plastic-tank radiators.
- Confirm the inlet/outlet positions and sizes match — some models moved ports between model years.
- Look for internal blockage: shake the unit and listen for debris, or flush it with a garden hose before installing.
Full price guide
Ford Mustang Radiator
$30 – $1,069 · 1,472 listings
Full price guide
Kia Optima Radiator
$35 – $1,800 · 1,116 listings
Common questions
Ford Mustang vs Kia Optima radiator FAQ
Is a used Ford Mustang radiator cheaper than a Kia Optima?
Kia Optima has the lower median by $19 (13%). The Kia Optima radiator ranges from $35 to $1,800 across 1,116 listings, while the Ford Mustang ranges from $30 to $1,069 across 1,472 listings.
Can I use a Ford Mustang radiator in a Kia Optima?
This comparison describes pricing, not interchangeability. Even when two parts share similar prices, they may require different engines, trims, electronics, or mounting points. Always match the seller's part number against your VIN before purchasing.
How many listings does this comparison cover?
This comparison draws from 1,472 priced Ford Mustang listings and 1,116 priced Kia Optima listings — 2,588 in total.
How does condition grade affect the price?
Part condition significantly impacts price. Grade A (Excellent): Ford Mustang $173 vs Kia Optima $153. Grade B (Good): Ford Mustang $125 vs Kia Optima $173. Grade C (Fair): Ford Mustang $107 vs Kia Optima $100. Grade A parts are in excellent condition, B is good, and C is fair — always confirm grading criteria with the seller.
Are there different trim variants to choose from?
Yes. The Ford Mustang radiator has 2 trim variants and the Kia Optima has 5. Variants differ by engine size, drivetrain, or part number — matching the right variant is critical for proper fitment.
More comparisons