1989 Nissan Laurel vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Nissan Laurel (202 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 203 kg more than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1989 Nissan Laurel 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 1989 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1989 Nissan Laurel (264 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1989 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Nissan Laurel | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Nissan | Kia |
Model | Laurel | Optima |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 202 HP | 166 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 264 Nm | 209 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1583 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2797 mm |