2004 Kia Spectra vs. 1996 Toyota Carina
To start off, 2004 Kia Spectra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota Carina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Spectra (125 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Carina. (82 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota Carina weights approximately 12 kg more than 2004 Kia Spectra.
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, 1996 Toyota Carina (174 Nm) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Spectra. (161 Nm). This means 1996 Toyota Carina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Spectra | 1996 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Spectra | Carina |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 59 L |
