2005 Kia Rio vs. 1988 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 2005 Kia Rio is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercury Grand Marquis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercury Grand Marquis would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercury Grand Marquis (148 HP) has 67 more horse power than 2005 Kia Rio. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercury Grand Marquis should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 244 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 1988 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 1988 Mercury Grand Marquis. 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, 1988 Mercury Grand Marquis (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Rio. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Mercury Grand Marquis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Rio | 1988 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
| Make | Kia | Mercury |
| Model | Rio | Grand Marquis |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 5400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 90 L |
