2009 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1972 Rover 3.5
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Rover 3.5 (150 HP) has 42 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Rover 3.5 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 374 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Rover 3.5 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 1972 Rover 3.5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 1972 Rover 3.5 (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Rover 3.5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. 1972 Rover 3.5 has automatic transmission and 2009 Chevrolet Optra has manual transmission. 2009 Chevrolet Optra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Rover 3.5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Optra | 1972 Rover 3.5 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Rover |
| Model | Optra | 3.5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 150 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 276 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2820 mm |
