2006 Kia Optima vs. 1997 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Laurel (153 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 98 kg more than 1997 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1997 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 1997 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 (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Laurel. (190 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Kia Optima | 1997 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Kia | Nissan |
Model | Optima | Laurel |
Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 199 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 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 | 1488 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |