2002 Kia Rio vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Kia Rio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Kia Rio would be higher. At 1,343 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Kia Rio weights approximately 135 kg more than 2003 Smart Roadster.
Because 2003 Smart Roadster 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 2003 Smart Roadster. 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, 2002 Kia Rio (113 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm). This means 2002 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Rio | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Kia | Smart |
| Model | Rio | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.6 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.3 mm | 67 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2370 mm |
