1978 Buick Electra vs. 2007 Kia Optima
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Electra would be higher. At 5,730 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Optima (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1978 Buick Electra. (153 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Electra.
Because 1978 Buick Electra 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 Buick Electra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1978 Buick Electra (381 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Optima. (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1978 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Optima. 1978 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2007 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2007 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Buick Electra | 2007 Kia Optima | |
Make | Buick | Kia |
Model | Electra | Optima |
Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5730 cc | 2359 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 162 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 381 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2730 mm |