1998 Ford Contour vs. 2000 Kia Rio

To start off, 2000 Kia Rio is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2000 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2000 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 317 kg more than 2000 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 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Kia Rio. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Kia Rio.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ford Contour 2000 Kia Rio
Make Ford Kia
Model Contour Rio
Year Released 1998 2000
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1989 cc 1343 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 128 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 121 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1242 kg 925 kg
Vehicle Length 4680 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2420 mm