2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2009 Kia Spectra. (136 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 792 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.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 2008 Ford Explorer. 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (136 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra. 2008 Ford Explorer 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. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 2009 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Explorer | Spectra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
