2008 Kia Rio vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Rio (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Rio weights approximately 229 kg more than 1996 Saturn SL. 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, 1996 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Rio. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Rio | 1996 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Kia | Saturn |
| Model | Rio | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
