2009 Kia Optima vs. 1959 Morgan 4
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Morgan 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Morgan 4 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 142 more horse power than 1959 Morgan 4. (33 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1959 Morgan 4.
Because 1959 Morgan 4 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 1959 Morgan 4. 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 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Morgan 4. (73 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Morgan 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1959 Morgan 4 | |
| Make | Kia | Morgan |
| Model | Optima | 4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 33 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 73 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
