2008 Kia Rio vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Kia Rio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Kia Rio would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2008 Kia Rio. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Rio.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Rio. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Rio | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.7 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 64 L |
