2002 Kia Optima vs. 1974 Toyota Carina
To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1974 Toyota Carina. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1974 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Kia Optima weights approximately 482 kg more than 1974 Toyota Carina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Toyota Carina 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 Toyota Carina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Kia Optima (216 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Toyota Carina. (135 Nm). This means 2002 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Toyota Carina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Optima | 1974 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Optima | Carina |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
