2009 Kia Spectra vs. 1981 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Corolla 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 70 more horse power than 1981 Toyota Corolla. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Toyota Corolla.
Because 1981 Toyota Corolla 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 1981 Toyota Corolla. 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 (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Toyota Corolla. (105 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Spectra | 1981 Toyota Corolla | |
Make | Kia | Toyota |
Model | Spectra | Corolla |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1290 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 68 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 185 Nm | 105 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 | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |