1979 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 185 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
Because 1979 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 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Chevrolet Caprice | 2011 Kia Optima | |
Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
Model | Caprice | Optima |
Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5002 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 274 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 333 Nm | 364 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2797 mm |