2002 Kia Rio vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 552 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.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (326 Nm) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Rio. (113 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Rio. 2003 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Rio | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rio | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.6 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1572 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2710 mm |
