1978 Holden GTS vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,141 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Holden GTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Holden GTS. (158 HP @ 4550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden GTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Holden GTS weights approximately 21 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 1978 Holden GTS 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 Holden GTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Holden GTS (327 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1978 Holden GTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Holden GTS | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Holden | Kia |
| Model | GTS | Optima |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4141 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4550 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2797 mm |
