2006 Kia Rio vs. 1999 Mazda 626
To start off, 2006 Kia Rio is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda 626 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2006 Kia Rio. (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda 626 weights approximately 96 kg more than 2006 Kia Rio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Mazda 626 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Rio. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Rio | 1999 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | 626 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1144 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 64 L |
