2008 Kia Rio vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Rio weights approximately 76 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Kia Rio (125 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 112 HP |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1101 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
