1977 Dodge Aspen vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1977 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1977 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 2 kg more than 1977 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Dodge Aspen 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 Dodge Aspen. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Kia Optima (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Dodge Aspen | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Dodge | Kia |
| Model | Aspen | Optima |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2710 mm |
