2009 Kia Optima vs. 1982 Nissan Leopard
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Nissan Leopard 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 78 more horse power than 1982 Nissan Leopard. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1982 Nissan Leopard.
Because 1982 Nissan Leopard 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 1982 Nissan Leopard. 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 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Nissan Leopard. (148 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Nissan Leopard. 1982 Nissan Leopard 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. 1982 Nissan Leopard will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1982 Nissan Leopard | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Optima | Leopard |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
