2008 Kia Rio vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Rio (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Rio weights approximately 29 kg more than 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer. 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer (137 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Rio. (125 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Rio | 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Kia | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Rio | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
