1981 Honda Civic vs. 2004 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2004 Kia Spectra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Spectra (124 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1981 Honda Civic. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Spectra weights approximately 439 kg more than 1981 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Kia Spectra (161 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Civic. (93 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Civic | 2004 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | Honda | Kia |
| Model | Civic | Spectra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1333 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 50 L |
