2009 Kia Rio vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,343 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2009 Kia Rio. (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rio weights approximately 83 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rio. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rio | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 165 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.3 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
