1998 Buick Signia vs. 2009 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Buick Signia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Buick Signia would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Signia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Signia (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2009 Kia Spectra. (136 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Signia weights approximately 455 kg more than 2009 Kia Spectra. 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, 1998 Buick Signia (387 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (136 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Signia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra. 1998 Buick Signia 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. 1998 Buick Signia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Buick Signia | 2009 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | Buick | Kia |
| Model | Signia | Spectra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
