2003 Acura RSX vs. 1999 Kia Rio
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Rio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Rio would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RSX (197 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1999 Kia Rio. (97 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura RSX weights approximately 321 kg more than 1999 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 Acura RSX (192 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Rio. (143 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RSX | 1999 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Acura | Kia |
| Model | RSX | Rio |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2420 mm |
