2009 Kia Optima vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century.
Because 1978 Buick Century 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 Buick Century. 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 1978 Buick Century | |
Make | Kia | Buick |
Model | Optima | Century |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2359 cc | 3788 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |