1980 Mitsubishi Sigma vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. (86 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 424 kg more than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma 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 Mitsubishi Sigma. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. (145 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Kia |
| Model | Sigma | Optima |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2797 mm |
