2006 Kia Optima vs. 1993 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1993 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1993 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 155 kg more than 1993 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 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 1993 Nissan Laurel. 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 (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Nissan Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1993 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Optima | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
