1972 Chevrolet Chevelle vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle would be higher. At 5,011 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle weights approximately 90 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle 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 Chevrolet Chevelle. 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, 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle (312 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Chevelle | Optima |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5011 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 65 L |
