1977 Buick LeSabre vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 34 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, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1977 Buick LeSabre. (163 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1977 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 95 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
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, 2011 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Buick LeSabre. (329 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Buick LeSabre.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Buick LeSabre | 2011 Kia Optima | |
Make | Buick | Kia |
Model | LeSabre | Optima |
Year Released | 1977 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 274 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 329 Nm | 364 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2797 mm |