2006 Kia Optima vs. 1981 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (120 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 338 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1981 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
