1990 Buick Skylark vs. 2009 Kia Spectra

To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1990 Buick Skylark. (110 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1990 Buick Skylark.

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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Buick Skylark. (183 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Buick Skylark. 1990 Buick Skylark 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. 1990 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 Buick Skylark 2009 Kia Spectra
Make Buick Kia
Model Skylark Spectra
Year Released 1990 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2471 cc 1975 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 110 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 183 Nm 185 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 101.6 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76.2 mm 86 mm
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4580 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 51 L 53 L