1979 Ford Thunderbird 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 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 275 kg more than 2013 Kia Optima.
Because 1979 Ford Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird. 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, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (386 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Kia Optima. (365 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Ford Thunderbird | 2013 Kia Optima | |
Make | Ford | Kia |
Model | Thunderbird | Optima |
Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5731 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 386 Nm | 365 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1813 kg | 1538 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5520 mm | 4845 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2795 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |