1955 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2005 Kia Optima
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 3,868 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 191 kg more than 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Chevrolet Corvette 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 1955 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1955 Chevrolet Corvette (302 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (241 Nm). This means 1955 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Chevrolet Corvette | 2005 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Corvette | Optima |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3868 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 302 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
