1999 Kia Rio vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1999 Kia Rio is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1999 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 153 kg more than 1999 Kia Rio. 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Rio. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Rio | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | 323 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2510 mm |
