1973 Austin Marina vs. 2008 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1973 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1973 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Spectra weights approximately 632 kg more than 1973 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra, 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, 2008 Kia Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Austin Marina. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Austin Marina | 2008 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | Austin | Kia |
| Model | Marina | Spectra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
