2004 Kia Optima vs. 1979 Lincoln Continental
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1979 Lincoln Continental. (138 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1979 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 413 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima.
Because 1979 Lincoln Continental 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 1979 Lincoln Continental. 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, 1979 Lincoln Continental (359 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 1979 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1979 Lincoln Continental | |
| Make | Kia | Lincoln |
| Model | Optima | Continental |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 5766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2990 mm |
