2009 Kia Optima vs. 1975 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1975 Toyota Corolla. (76 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1975 Toyota Corolla.
Because 1975 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Toyota Corolla. (114 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1975 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Optima | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1406 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
