2009 Kia Optima vs. 1956 Morris Minor
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Morris Minor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Morris Minor would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1956 Morris Minor. (36 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1956 Morris Minor.
Because 1956 Morris Minor 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 1956 Morris Minor. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Morris Minor. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Morris Minor.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1956 Morris Minor | |
| Make | Kia | Morris |
| Model | Optima | Minor |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2190 mm |
