1971 Austin 3 vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 28 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
Because 1971 Austin 3 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 1971 Austin 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Austin | Kia |
| Model | 3 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1462 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
