2001 Kia Rio vs. 1999 Ford Mustang

To start off, 2001 Kia Rio is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Mustang (187 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2001 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2001 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Mustang weights approximately 485 kg more than 2001 Kia Rio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Kia Rio, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1999 Ford Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Kia Rio. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Kia Rio. 1999 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 2001 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 2001 Kia Rio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Kia Rio 1999 Ford Mustang
Make Kia Ford
Model Rio Mustang
Year Released 2001 1999
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1342 cc 3801 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 74 HP 187 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 121 Nm 298 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 925 kg 1410 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4620 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2420 mm 2580 mm