2008 BMW 120 vs. 2012 Kia Rio

To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 120 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 120 (169 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2012 Kia Rio. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 120 weights approximately 272 kg more than 2012 Kia Rio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 120 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 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 BMW 120 (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Rio. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Rio. 2012 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 120 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 120 2012 Kia Rio
Make BMW Kia
Model 120 Rio
Year Released 2008 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 169 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 6700 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4850 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1365 kg 1093 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4046 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1455 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 43 L