2009 Kia Optima vs. 1959 Rover P4
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Rover P4 would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1959 Rover P4. (92 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1959 Rover P4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 69 kg more than 1959 Rover P4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Rover P4 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 Rover P4. 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 (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Rover P4. (168 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Rover P4. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1959 Rover P4 has manual transmission. 1959 Rover P4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1959 Rover P4 | |
| Make | Kia | Rover |
| Model | Optima | P4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 2625 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 92 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 52 L |
