2005 Kia Optima vs. 1983 Lincoln Mark VII
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lincoln Mark VII. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lincoln Mark VII would be higher. At 2,443 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Lincoln Mark VII is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1983 Lincoln Mark VII. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1983 Lincoln Mark VII. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Lincoln Mark VII weights approximately 142 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima.
Because 1983 Lincoln Mark VII 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 1983 Lincoln Mark VII. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1983 Lincoln Mark VII (210 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 1983 Lincoln Mark VII will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 1983 Lincoln Mark VII | |
| Make | Kia | Lincoln |
| Model | Optima | Mark VII |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2443 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
