1989 Ford Probe vs. 2012 Kia Rio
To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Probe weights approximately 157 kg more than 2012 Kia Rio.
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, 1989 Ford Probe (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Rio. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Rio. 2012 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 2012 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Probe | Rio |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1093 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4046 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2570 mm |
