2003 Honda Element vs. 2002 Kia Rio
To start off, 2003 Honda Element is newer by 1 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 2,352 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Honda Element (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Honda Element weights approximately 610 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, 2003 Honda Element (216 Nm) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Rio. (113 Nm). This means 2003 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Honda Element | 2002 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Honda | Kia |
| Model | Element | Rio |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2352 cc | 1343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 71.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2420 mm |
