2009 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1974 Austin Marina

To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Optra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Optra (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1974 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Optra should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 331 kg more than 1974 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1974 Austin Marina 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 1974 Austin Marina. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Optra (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Optra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Marina. 1974 Austin Marina 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. 1974 Austin Marina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Chevrolet Optra 1974 Austin Marina
Make Chevrolet Austin
Model Optra Marina
Year Released 2009 1974
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1799 cc 1798 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 120 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 166 Nm 102 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1211 kg 880 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4230 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2610 mm 2440 mm