1977 Buick Regal vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 35 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 4,932 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1977 Buick Regal. (143 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1977 Buick Regal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 65 kg more than 1977 Buick Regal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 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 (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Buick Regal. (334 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Buick Regal.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Buick Regal | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Buick | Kia |
Model | Regal | Optima |
Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4932 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 274 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 334 Nm | 364 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2797 mm |