2006 Kia Optima vs. 1985 Vauxhall Carlton
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Vauxhall Carlton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Vauxhall Carlton would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1985 Vauxhall Carlton. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1985 Vauxhall Carlton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 850 kg more than 1985 Vauxhall Carlton. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Vauxhall Carlton 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 1985 Vauxhall Carlton. 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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Vauxhall Carlton. (143 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Vauxhall Carlton.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1985 Vauxhall Carlton | |
| Make | Kia | Vauxhall |
| Model | Optima | Carlton |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
