1980 Buick LeSabre vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1980 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1980 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 47 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima.
Because 1980 Buick LeSabre 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 1980 Buick LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1980 Buick LeSabre (251 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 1980 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Buick LeSabre | 2004 Kia Optima | |
Make | Buick | Kia |
Model | LeSabre | Optima |
Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2398 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 199 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1549 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2720 mm |