2009 Kia Spectra vs. 1973 Toyota Century
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Toyota Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Toyota Century would be higher. At 2,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Toyota Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1973 Toyota Century. (127 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1973 Toyota Century.
Because 1973 Toyota Century 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 1973 Toyota Century. 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, 1973 Toyota Century (236 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1973 Toyota Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 1973 Toyota Century | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Spectra | Century |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2870 mm |
