1984 GMC Suburban 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 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1984 GMC Suburban. (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1984 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 GMC Suburban weights approximately 709 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.

Because 1984 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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 (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 GMC Suburban. (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 GMC Suburban.

Compare all specifications:

1984 GMC Suburban 2012 Kia Optima
Make GMC Kia
Model Suburban Optima
Year Released 1984 2012
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4300 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 153 HP 274 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 312 Nm 364 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 1750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Vehicle Weight 2244 kg 1535 kg
Vehicle Length 5480 mm 4844 mm
Vehicle Width 1950 mm 1831 mm
Vehicle Height 1800 mm 1455 mm
Wheelbase Size 3300 mm 2797 mm


 

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