1998 Ford Laser vs. 2008 Kia Rio
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Ford Laser. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Laser weights approximately 36 kg more than 2008 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 Laser (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Rio. (125 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Laser | 2008 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Laser | Rio |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
