1998 Saturn SC 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 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saturn SC would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saturn SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Rio weights approximately 48 kg more than 1998 Saturn SC. 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, 2011 Kia Rio (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SC. 2011 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1998 Saturn SC has manual transmission. 1998 Saturn SC 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 Saturn SC | 2011 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Saturn | Kia |
| Model | SC | Rio |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1093 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2570 mm |
