1974 Austin Marina vs. 2005 Kia Optima
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Austin Marina would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1974 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 608 kg more than 1974 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Austin Marina 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 1974 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Marina. (102 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Marina | 2005 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Austin | Kia |
| Model | Marina | Optima |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
