2006 Kia Optima vs. 1975 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 660 kg more than 1975 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Volvo 240 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 1975 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 240. (158 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1975 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Kia | Volvo |
| Model | Optima | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
