2009 Kia Rio vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Rio (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 107 kg more than 2009 Kia Rio.
Because 1996 Toyota MR2 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 1996 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1996 Toyota MR2 (131 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rio. (117 Nm). This means 1996 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rio | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Kia | Toyota |
| Model | Rio | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 75 L |
