1978 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1978 Ford Falcon. (129 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Falcon.
Because 1978 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. 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 Ford Falcon (263 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Ford Falcon | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | Ford | Kia |
Model | Falcon | Optima |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3273 cc | 2359 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 263 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2730 mm |