2007 Kia Optima vs. 1986 Opel Rekord

To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Optima (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1986 Opel Rekord. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1986 Opel Rekord.

Because 1986 Opel Rekord 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 1986 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Kia Optima (222 Nm @ 4260 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Opel Rekord. (182 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Opel Rekord. 1986 Opel Rekord has automatic transmission and 2007 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2007 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Opel Rekord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Kia Optima 1986 Opel Rekord
Make Kia Opel
Model Optima Rekord
Year Released 2007 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2399 cc 2196 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 162 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 222 Nm 182 Nm
Torque RPM 4260 RPM 2800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.4:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4660 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2600 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 65 L