2004 Kia Rio vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Kia Rio is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Rio (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 80 kg more than 2004 Kia Rio.
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, 1998 Opel Astra (167 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Rio. (141 Nm). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Rio | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Kia | Opel |
| Model | Rio | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 53 L |
