2008 Kia Spectra vs. 1988 Vauxhall Carlton

To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Vauxhall Carlton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Vauxhall Carlton would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1988 Vauxhall Carlton. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1988 Vauxhall Carlton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Spectra weights approximately 362 kg more than 1988 Vauxhall Carlton. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 Vauxhall Carlton 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 1988 Vauxhall Carlton. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Kia Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Vauxhall Carlton. (151 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Vauxhall Carlton.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Kia Spectra 1988 Vauxhall Carlton
Make Kia Vauxhall
Model Spectra Carlton
Year Released 2008 1988
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1975 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 184 Nm 151 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3400 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1512 kg 1150 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 4690 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2740 mm