2002 Kia Rio vs. 1989 Nissan 300 ZX
To start off, 2002 Kia Rio is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Nissan 300 ZX (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 440 kg more than 2002 Kia Rio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1989 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1989 Nissan 300 ZX (234 Nm) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Rio. (113 Nm). This means 1989 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Rio | 1989 Nissan 300 ZX | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Rio | 300 ZX |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2530 mm |
