1984 Buick Electra vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1984 Buick Electra. (123 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1984 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 133 kg more than 1984 Buick Electra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1984 Buick Electra (264 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1984 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Buick Electra | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Buick | Kia |
| Model | Electra | Optima |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2797 mm |
