2005 Kia Optima vs. 1969 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Nissan Laurel 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1969 Nissan Laurel. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1969 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 487 kg more than 1969 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Nissan Laurel. 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Nissan Laurel. (155 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 1969 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Optima | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1813 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
