2006 Chevrolet Spark vs. 2009 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chevrolet Spark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chevrolet Spark would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Spark. (65 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Spark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Spectra weights approximately 437 kg more than 2006 Chevrolet Spark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Chevrolet Spark 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 2006 Chevrolet Spark. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Kia Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Spark. (87 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Spark.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Spark | 2009 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
| Model | Spark | Spectra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 995 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 53 L |
