2009 Kia Optima vs. 1979 Nissan 260 ZX
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Nissan 260 ZX would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. (124 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 359 kg more than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Nissan 260 ZX 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 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. 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 (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. (189 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1979 Nissan 260 ZX has manual transmission. 1979 Nissan 260 ZX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 1979 Nissan 260 ZX | |
Make | Kia | Nissan |
Model | Optima | 260 ZX |
Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2656 cc | 2565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 194 HP | 124 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 189 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4230 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2610 mm |