2004 Kia Optima vs. 1970 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1970 Toyota Corolla. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1970 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 657 kg more than 1970 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Toyota Corolla 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 1970 Toyota Corolla. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Kia Optima (245 Nm) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Toyota Corolla. (118 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1970 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Optima | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1405 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2340 mm |
