1980 Holden Commodore vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (197 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1980 Holden Commodore. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1980 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Optima weights approximately 194 kg more than 1980 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Holden Commodore 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 Holden Commodore. 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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Holden Commodore. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Holden Commodore | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Holden | Kia |
| Model | Commodore | Optima |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3298 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2795 mm |
