1978 GMC Jimmy 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 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1978 GMC Jimmy. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 GMC Jimmy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 281 kg more than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 1978 GMC Jimmy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 GMC Jimmy will offer significantly more control. 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 (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 GMC Jimmy. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 GMC Jimmy.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 GMC Jimmy | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | GMC | Kia |
| Model | Jimmy | Optima |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 242 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1519 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2730 mm |
