2002 Kia Rio vs. 2008 Pontiac G8
To start off, 2008 Pontiac G8 is newer by 6 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac G8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac G8 (361 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac G8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Pontiac G8 weights approximately 332 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 2008 Pontiac G8 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 2008 Pontiac G8. 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, 2008 Pontiac G8 (522 Nm) has 409 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Rio. (113 Nm). This means 2008 Pontiac G8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Rio. 2008 Pontiac G8 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. 2008 Pontiac G8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Rio | 2008 Pontiac G8 | |
| Make | Kia | Pontiac |
| Model | Rio | G8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 361 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 522 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.6 mm | 102 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2920 mm |
