2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2011 Kia Rio
To start off, 2011 Kia Rio is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2011 Kia Rio. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 552 kg more than 2011 Kia Rio. 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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Rio. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Rio. 2011 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 2009 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2009 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 2011 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Hyundai | Kia |
| Model | Sonata | Rio |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4016 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2499 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
