2008 Kia Rio vs. 1998 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Rio (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Rio weights approximately 452 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-3. 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, 2008 Kia Rio (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Rio | 1998 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1511 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
