2001 Kia Rio vs. 2009 Nissan Versa

To start off, 2009 Nissan Versa is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Kia Rio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Kia Rio would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Versa (122 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2001 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 2001 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Versa weights approximately 407 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.

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 Nissan Versa (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Kia Rio. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Kia Rio. 2009 Nissan Versa 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. 2009 Nissan Versa will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Kia Rio 2009 Nissan Versa
Make Kia Nissan
Model Rio Versa
Year Released 2001 2009
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1342 cc 1798 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 122 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 121 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 925 kg 1332 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1540 mm
Wheelbase Size 2420 mm 2610 mm