2007 Kia Rio vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2007 Kia Rio is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2007 Kia Rio. (95 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 2007 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 240 kg more than 2007 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, 2003 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Rio. (127 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Rio. 2007 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 2003 Saturn L has manual transmission. 2003 Saturn L will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Rio | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | Kia | Saturn |
| Model | Rio | L |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 59 L |
