2002 Kia Rio vs. 1999 Lexus IS
To start off, 2002 Kia Rio is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus IS weights approximately 380 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 1999 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS. 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, 1999 Lexus IS (195 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Rio. (113 Nm). This means 1999 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Rio. 1999 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2002 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 2002 Kia Rio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Rio | 1999 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Rio | IS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2680 mm |
