1999 Kia Rio vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Rio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Rio would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1999 Kia Rio. (97 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 790 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, 2008 Saturn Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Rio. (143 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Rio | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Kia | Saturn |
| Model | Rio | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2620 mm |
