1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 5,736 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (105 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 346 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
Because 1981 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 1981 Buick LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1981 Buick LeSabre (274 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1981 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Optima. 1981 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 2011 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2011 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Buick LeSabre | 2011 Kia Optima | |
Make | Buick | Kia |
Model | LeSabre | Optima |
Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5736 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 274 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1454 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2797 mm |