2009 Kia Optima vs. 1978 Toyota Corona
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Corona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Corona 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 93 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Corona. (82 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Corona.
Because 1978 Toyota Corona 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 Toyota Corona. 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 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Corona. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Corona. 1978 Toyota Corona has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Toyota Corona will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 1978 Toyota Corona | |
Make | Kia | Toyota |
Model | Optima | Corona |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 82 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |