1974 Toyota Corolla vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1974 Toyota Corolla. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1974 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 763 kg more than 1974 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Kia Optima (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Toyota Corolla. (105 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Toyota Corolla | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Toyota | Kia |
Model | Corolla | Optima |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1290 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 67 HP | 166 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 209 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1583 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2797 mm |