2005 Spectra

kiahater · 04-23-2004, 02:46 PM

Congratulations to the Kia engineers, they got their shit together on this one... 138 bhp, independant suspension front and rear and it doesn't feel like a tin can when you're driving...I expect to see these ones tricked out all over the place because it's an inexpensive starting point for a really really nice car.

C-DUBYA · 05-10-2004, 05:50 PM

Hey welcome to the Hyundai Elantra LOL

TakaCar · 05-17-2004, 08:52 PM

The new Spectra looks great. I think most of the new Kia models look great now. I would buy one if they were reliable

C-DUBYA · 05-18-2004, 01:48 PM

i agree they look good but i cannot figure out why someone would buy a kia when they could have a Hyundai for relatively the same amount.

autodesignerdave · 08-24-2004, 02:07 PM

I just drove a 5-door. It has a modest supply of horsepower, but as always I wish there was more. I have to remind myself what the taget market is for this vehicle. The car has a nice overall shape and look. I'm working on a body kit for it right now. More to come.

Puffnstuff · 08-24-2004, 07:32 PM

Hyundai and kia are the same company just like ford and mercury.

Doohickie · 08-11-2005, 11:04 PM

i cannot figure out why someone would buy a kia when they could have a Hyundai for relatively the same amount.

I'm at that crossroads right now, actually. I'll tell you the reason: The Spec5 looks a LOT better than the Elantra 5 door. The Elantra's okay, but the styling is clearly dated. From spy photos I've seen, the new Elantra 5 door will be a very close cousin to the Spec5. But it won't be out for another year and I'm not gonna wait that long.

I've test driven both the Elantra GT 5 door and the Spec5. Same amount of power, but the exhaust note on the Elantra is a little tamer (more sophisticated?), as is the ride. The Spec5 has a stiffer ride, in a harsh sense that I don't really prefer. But the Spec5 has better styling; obviously influenced by the Mazda3 5 door. Also, the Spec5 has better under-floor storage in the trunk (note the removable plastic bins on either side).

Wild1 · 08-13-2005, 10:54 AM

Actually, Kia is 10% Daimler Chrysler and 40% Hyundai. There are several styles of the Spectra. I drive the SX. More often than not it is a special order from your dealer. With the manual it is very lively and comes with the tuned performance suspension. No problem and running hard.

Doohickie · 08-13-2005, 02:51 PM

Nope, wrong. Chrysler owned about 10% of Hyundai, but sold it in August of 2004. Some strategic partnerships continue.

Wild1 · 08-14-2005, 02:14 AM

You may be right. I heard something about that but I wasn't sure Chrysler and Hyundai separated. You can see the Chrysler influence with the MELCO/Mitsubishi EMS and 3.5L engines.

Doohickie · 08-14-2005, 09:01 AM

If you click on the word "sold" in my previous post, there is a link to the Chrysler website news release about the sale of Hyundai.

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