1982 Buick LeSabre vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1982 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1982 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 52 kg more than 2013 Kia Optima.
Because 1982 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 1982 Buick LeSabre. 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 (365 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Buick LeSabre. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Buick LeSabre.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Buick LeSabre | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Buick | Kia |
| Model | LeSabre | Optima |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1538 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2795 mm |
