2006 Kia Optima vs. 1978 Mazda 818
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 608 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 1978 Mazda 818. 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 (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1978 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | 818 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2320 mm |
