2001 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2012 Kia Rio
To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Hyundai Elantra would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2001 Hyundai Elantra. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 2001 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 231 kg more than 2012 Kia Rio.
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, 2001 Hyundai Elantra (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Rio. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 2001 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Rio. 2012 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 2001 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2001 Hyundai Elantra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Hyundai Elantra | 2012 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Hyundai | Kia |
| Model | Elantra | Rio |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1357 kg | 1126 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
