2007 Kia Rio vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Kia Rio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Kia Rio would be higher. At 1,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2007 Kia Rio. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Kia Rio.
Because 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Rio. (126 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Rio. 2008 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2007 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 2007 Kia Rio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Rio | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.2 L/100km | 110 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
