1998 Ford Escort vs. 2013 Kia RIO
To start off, 2013 Kia RIO is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia RIO is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia RIO (136 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia RIO should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Escort weights approximately 41 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 Kia RIO (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2013 Kia RIO will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort. 2013 Kia RIO has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Kia RIO will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Escort | 2013 Kia RIO | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Escort | RIO |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4045 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1455 mm |
