1999 Kia Rio vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 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 1,598 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1999 Kia Rio. (97 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 247 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Rio. (143 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Rio | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2650 mm |
