1972 Buick Centurion vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Buick Centurion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Buick Centurion would be higher. At 7,468 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Buick Centurion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1972 Buick Centurion. (225 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1972 Buick Centurion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Buick Centurion weights approximately 535 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
Because 1972 Buick Centurion 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 1972 Buick Centurion. 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, 1972 Buick Centurion (498 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Optima. (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1972 Buick Centurion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Buick Centurion | 2011 Kia Optima | |
Make | Buick | Kia |
Model | Centurion | Optima |
Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7468 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 225 HP | 274 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 498 Nm | 364 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3160 mm | 2797 mm |