2009 Kia Spectra vs. 1999 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota MR2 (140 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2009 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Spectra weights approximately 575 kg more than 1999 Toyota MR2.
Because 1999 Toyota MR2 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 1999 Toyota MR2. 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 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Toyota MR2. (183 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 1999 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Spectra | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 48 L |
