2002 Kia Rio vs. 2009 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier is newer by 7 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 309 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 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 2009 Nissan Frontier. 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, 2009 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Rio. (113 Nm). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Rio. 2009 Nissan Frontier 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. 2009 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Rio | 2009 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Rio | Frontier |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 3200 mm |
