1971 Fiat 125 vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 125. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 125 would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 125. (90 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 125. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 528 kg more than 1971 Fiat 125. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Fiat 125 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 Fiat 125. 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, 2004 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 125. (131 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 125.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 125 | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Fiat | Kia |
| Model | 125 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
