1969 Volvo 164 vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 1969 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1969 Volvo 164. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1969 Volvo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 175 kg more than 1969 Volvo 164. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Volvo 164 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 Volvo 164. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volvo 164. (210 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Volvo 164 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Volvo | Kia |
| Model | 164 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2797 mm |
