1984 Ford Falcon vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1984 Ford Falcon. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 161 kg more than 1984 Ford Falcon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Ford Falcon 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 1984 Ford Falcon. 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Falcon. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Falcon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Falcon | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Falcon | Optima |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3273 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2797 mm |
