1973 Buick Skylark vs. 1999 Kia Rio

To start off, 1999 Kia Rio is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 5,724 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Buick Skylark (150 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1999 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Buick Skylark weights approximately 680 kg more than 1999 Kia Rio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 Buick Skylark 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 1973 Buick Skylark. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Rio, 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, 1973 Buick Skylark (366 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Rio. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Rio.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Buick Skylark 1999 Kia Rio
Make Buick Kia
Model Skylark Rio
Year Released 1973 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5724 cc 1343 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 366 Nm 121 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1605 kg 925 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2960 mm 2420 mm