1973 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2003 Kia Opirus

To start off, 2003 Kia Opirus is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Kia Opirus (196 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Kia Opirus should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Opirus weights approximately 45 kg more than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 Chevrolet Impala 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 1973 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Kia Opirus, 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, 2003 Kia Opirus (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Kia Opirus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. 2003 Kia Opirus has automatic transmission and 1973 Chevrolet Impala has manual transmission. 1973 Chevrolet Impala will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Kia Opirus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Chevrolet Impala 2003 Kia Opirus
Make Chevrolet Kia
Model Impala Opirus
Year Released 1973 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4097 cc 3497 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 110 HP 196 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 251 Nm 295 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 98.3 mm 93 mm
Engine Stroke Size 89.6 mm 85.8 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1715 kg 1760 kg
Vehicle Length 5600 mm 4960 mm
Vehicle Width 2030 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 3100 mm 2810 mm


 

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