1974 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Caprice. (143 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 533 kg more than 2006 Kia Optima.
Because 1974 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1974 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1974 Chevrolet Caprice (339 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Caprice | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Caprice | Optima |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2020 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5670 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2710 mm |
