2004 Kia Spectra vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Kia Spectra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Spectra (124 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 124 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, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Spectra. (161 Nm). This means 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Spectra | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spectra | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1207 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
