1986 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Kia Spectra

To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 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 (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort.

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, 2009 Kia Spectra (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (133 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 2009 Kia Spectra
Make Ford Kia
Model Escort Spectra
Year Released 1986 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1608 cc 1975 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 90 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 133 Nm 185 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79.5 mm 86 mm
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4030 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 53 L