2012 Kia Rio vs. 2003 Acura RSX
To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura RSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura RSX would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2012 Kia Rio. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura RSX weights approximately 129 kg more than 2012 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, 2003 Acura RSX (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Rio. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 2003 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Kia Rio | 2003 Acura RSX | |
| Make | Kia | Acura |
| Model | Rio | RSX |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1093 kg | 1222 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4366 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1455 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 50 L |
