2005 Kia Rio vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Kia Rio is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2005 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 741 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Rio. (121 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Rio | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1671 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2270 mm |
