1998 Honda Civic vs. 2004 Kia Rio
To start off, 2004 Kia Rio is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Rio (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1998 Honda Civic. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Rio weights approximately 135 kg more than 1998 Honda Civic. 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, 2004 Kia Rio (141 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda Civic. (110 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda Civic | 2004 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Honda | Kia |
| Model | Civic | Rio |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2390 mm |
