2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Kia Rio
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Kia Rio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Kia Rio would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2006 Kia Rio. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 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, 2006 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Rio. (132 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Rio. 2006 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | RX-8 | Rio |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 45 L |
