1971 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,341 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1971 Chrysler Valiant. (200 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1971 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 85 kg more than 1971 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Chrysler Valiant 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 1971 Chrysler Valiant. 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chrysler Valiant. (355 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chrysler Valiant | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chrysler | Kia |
| Model | Valiant | Optima |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4341 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2797 mm |
