2007 Kia Rio vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2007 Kia Rio is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 191 more horse power than 2007 Kia Rio. (94 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2007 Kia Rio.
Because 1996 Lotus Esprit 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 1996 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Rio. (125 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Rio | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Rio | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 285 HP |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.1 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 265 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2420 mm |
