1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. (166 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 148 kg more than 2006 Kia Optima.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo 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 Monte Carlo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Monte Carlo (387 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Monte Carlo | Optima |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 86.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2710 mm |
