2003 Ford Mustang vs. 2005 Kia Rio
To start off, 2005 Kia Rio is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 2005 Kia Rio. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 548 kg more than 2005 Kia Rio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Mustang 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 2003 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (530 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 415 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Rio. (115 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Mustang | 2005 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Mustang | Rio |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1341 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1492 kg | 944 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 45 L |
