1998 Ford Focus vs. 2011 Kia Rio

To start off, 2011 Kia Rio is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 151 kg more than 2011 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, 1998 Ford Focus (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Rio. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Rio. 2011 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ford Focus 2011 Kia Rio
Make Ford Kia
Model Focus Rio
Year Released 1998 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1797 cc 1600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 134 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4850 RPM
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1244 kg 1093 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4046 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1455 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 43 L