1979 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (197 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1979 Toyota Corolla. (53 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1979 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Optima weights approximately 542 kg more than 1979 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla. 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 (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Toyota Corolla. (85 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Toyota Corolla | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Toyota | Kia |
| Model | Corolla | Optima |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1166 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 97 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |
