1974 Austin 1800 vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 359 kg more than 1974 Austin 1800. 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, 2004 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Austin | Kia |
| Model | 1800 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 65 L |
