2009 Kia Optima vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 2,835 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. (129 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 73 kg more than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix has manual transmission. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 | 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
Make | Kia | Pontiac |
Model | Optima | Grand Prix |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2656 cc | 2835 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 194 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 76 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1446 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2740 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |