1979 Dodge Aspen vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1979 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1979 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Optima weights approximately 73 kg more than 1979 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Dodge Aspen 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 Dodge Aspen. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Kia Optima (365 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Dodge Aspen | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Dodge | Kia |
| Model | Aspen | Optima |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 117.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1538 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2795 mm |
