1979 Ford LTD vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford LTD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford LTD would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford LTD is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1979 Ford LTD. (133 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford LTD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford LTD weights approximately 199 kg more than 2006 Kia Optima.
Because 1979 Ford LTD 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 Ford LTD. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1979 Ford LTD (332 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Ford LTD will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford LTD | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | LTD | Optima |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 86.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1686 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
