1985 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (132 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Spectra weights approximately 205 kg more than 1985 Ford Escort. 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, 1985 Ford Escort (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (136 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2009 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Escort | Spectra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
