2004 Kia Spectra vs. 1989 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2004 Kia Spectra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Nissan Laurel (202 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2004 Kia Spectra. (124 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 156 kg more than 2004 Kia Spectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Nissan Laurel (264 Nm) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Spectra. (161 Nm). This means 1989 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Spectra | 1989 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Spectra | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2680 mm |
