1981 Austin Marina vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Austin Marina would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1981 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Marina.
Because 1981 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 1981 Austin Marina. 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 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Marina | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Austin | Kia |
| Model | Marina | Optima |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2730 mm |
