2008 Kia Rio vs. 1990 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 1,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Rio weights approximately 371 kg more than 1990 Toyota Starlet.
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, 2008 Kia Rio (125 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Toyota Starlet. (77 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Toyota Starlet. 2008 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1990 Toyota Starlet has manual transmission. 1990 Toyota Starlet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Rio | 1990 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Rio | Starlet |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1101 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2310 mm |
