1977 Buick Regal 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 Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Buick Regal would be higher. At 5,736 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1977 Buick Regal. (163 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1977 Buick Regal.
Because 1977 Buick Regal 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 Regal. 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 Regal (352 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 1977 Buick Regal 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 Regal will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Buick Regal | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | Buick | Kia |
Model | Regal | Optima |
Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5736 cc | 2359 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 352 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2730 mm |