2007 Kia Optima vs. 1979 Honda Civic
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Honda Civic would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Optima (162 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1979 Honda Civic. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1979 Honda Civic.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2007 Kia Optima (222 Nm @ 4260 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Honda Civic. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Honda Civic. 1979 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 2007 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2007 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Optima | 1979 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Kia | Honda |
| Model | Optima | Civic |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1335 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4260 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 40 L |
