2009 Kia Optima vs. 1980 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercury Grand Marquis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercury Grand Marquis would be higher. At 4,184 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1980 Mercury Grand Marquis. (118 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercury Grand Marquis.
Because 1980 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 1980 Mercury Grand Marquis. 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, 1980 Mercury Grand Marquis (262 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercury Grand Marquis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 1980 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
Make | Kia | Mercury |
Model | Optima | Grand Marquis |
Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2359 cc | 4184 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 262 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1980 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2910 mm |