1977 Buick LeSabre vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1977 Buick LeSabre. (163 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1977 Buick LeSabre.
Because 1977 Buick LeSabre 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 1977 Buick LeSabre. 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, 1977 Buick LeSabre (329 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 1977 Buick LeSabre 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. 1977 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Buick LeSabre | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Buick | Kia |
| Model | LeSabre | Optima |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2730 mm |
