2002 Kia Rio vs. 2012 Kia Soul
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul is newer by 10 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Soul is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Soul (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Soul should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Soul weights approximately 166 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, 2012 Kia Soul (167 Nm) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Rio. (113 Nm). This means 2012 Kia Soul will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Rio | 2012 Kia Soul | |
| Make | Kia | Kia |
| Model | Rio | Soul |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1186 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2550 mm |
