1978 Chevrolet Caprice 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 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice.
Because 1978 Chevrolet Caprice 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 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice (280 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice 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. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chevrolet Caprice | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
Model | Caprice | Optima |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2359 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2730 mm |