2006 Kia Optima vs. 1994 Holden Nova
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Holden Nova 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) has 57 more horse power than 1994 Holden Nova. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1994 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 985 kg more than 1994 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Holden Nova. 1994 Holden Nova has automatic transmission and 2006 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2006 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1994 Holden Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1994 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Kia | Holden |
| Model | Optima | Nova |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1015 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
