2009 Kia Spectra vs. 2002 Toyota Corolla

To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 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 11 more horse power than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (127 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Spectra weights approximately 435 kg more than 2002 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota Corolla.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Kia Spectra 2002 Toyota Corolla
Make Kia Toyota
Model Spectra Corolla
Year Released 2009 2002
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1975 cc 1830 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 127 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 184 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 91.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1515 kg 1080 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 60 L