1977 Buick Electra vs. 2002 Kia Rio

To start off, 2002 Kia Rio is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Buick Electra would be higher. At 5,730 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Buick Electra (153 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Buick Electra weights approximately 765 kg more than 2002 Kia Rio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1977 Buick Electra 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 1977 Buick Electra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1977 Buick Electra (380 Nm) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Rio. (113 Nm). This means 1977 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Rio. 1977 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2002 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 2002 Kia Rio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1977 Buick Electra 2002 Kia Rio
Make Buick Kia
Model Electra Rio
Year Released 1977 2002
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5730 cc 1343 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 153 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 3400 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 380 Nm 113 Nm
Engine Bore Size 96.5 mm 71.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 97.8 mm 83.3 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1785 kg 1020 kg
Vehicle Length 5650 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 3030 mm 2420 mm