2009 Kia Optima vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1981 Nissan Laurel 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 1981 Nissan Laurel. 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (179 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Laurel has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Laurel 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 | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Optima | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 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 Length | 4810 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
