2005 Kia Rio vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Kia Rio is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP) has 33 more horse power than 2005 Kia Rio. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Rio weights approximately 403 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323.
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 Mazda 323 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Rio. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Rio. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2005 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 2005 Kia Rio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Rio | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
