1970 Fiat 124 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 124. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 625 kg more than 1970 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Fiat 124 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 1970 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 124. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1970 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1970 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Fiat 124 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Fiat | Kia |
| Model | 124 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 70 L |
