1978 Alpine A 310 vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Alpine A 310 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1978 Alpine A 310. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Alpine A 310.
Because 1978 Alpine A 310 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 1978 Alpine A 310. 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Alpine A 310. (208 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Alpine A 310.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Alpine A 310 | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Alpine | Kia |
| Model | A 310 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 62 L |
