1976 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1976 Ford Thunderbird 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 1976 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 1976 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Ford Thunderbird | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | Ford | Kia |
Model | Thunderbird | Optima |
Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2359 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 317 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.1:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2730 mm |