1989 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2009 Kia Spectra

To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chevrolet Caprice (195 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2009 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Spectra.

Because 1989 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1989 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1989 Chevrolet Caprice (393 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra. 1989 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Spectra has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Spectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Chevrolet Caprice 2009 Kia Spectra
Make Chevrolet Kia
Model Caprice Spectra
Year Released 1989 2009
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5733 cc 1973 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 195 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 393 Nm 184 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.8:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 5400 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1920 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 95 L 53 L