Fortunately, it's easy to distinguish the new 2004 Spectra from the old 2004 Spectra. The old one is a carryover from the 2003 model year. The new one is all-new, with sharper styling. It's noticeably bigger. It's also priced only a couple of hundred dollars more.

Mechanically, the new 2004 Spectra is all-new. The engine is more powerful, more fuel efficient and cleaner. The wheelbase is longer, which improves the ride. The track is wider, which improves handling. Four-wheel disc brakes are now standard, where the previous model had rear drum brakes.

The interior is redesigned and upgraded. Materials are higher quality. Fit and finish is better. Ergonomics are improved. There's more headroom, more hip room and more rear legroom. The trunk is larger.

All these advances and improvements pale, however, alongside the new 2004 Spectra's occupant safety features. No other car in this price range or size class, nor many costing thousands of dollars more and in larger classes, offer the same, full complement of standard airbag supplemental restraints. In addition to the mandatory two frontal airbags, front-seat occupants are protected by seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and full-coverage side curtain airbags protect front- and rear-seat occupants. The competition has some catching up to do.