2004 Kia Rio vs. 1973 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2004 Kia Rio is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Rio (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Laurel. (98 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 30 kg more than 2004 Kia Rio.
Because 1973 Nissan Laurel 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 1973 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1973 Nissan Laurel (163 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Rio. (141 Nm). This means 1973 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Rio | 1973 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Rio | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2680 mm |
