1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1999 Kia Rio
To start off, 1999 Kia Rio is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1999 Kia Rio. (98 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 473 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.
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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Rio. (143 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1999 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Chrysler | Kia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Rio |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2420 mm |
