1962 Honda S500 vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Honda S500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Honda S500 would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1962 Honda S500. (38 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1962 Honda S500.
Because 1962 Honda S500 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 1962 Honda S500. 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Honda S500. (39 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Honda S500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Honda S500 | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Honda | Kia |
| Model | S500 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 492 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 62 L |
