1969 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1969 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1969 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1969 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 227 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima.
Because 1969 Chevrolet Impala 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 1969 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1969 Chevrolet Impala (256 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 1969 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Chevrolet Impala | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Impala | Optima |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.2 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2710 mm |
