1996 Lexus SC vs. 2012 Kia Rio
To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus SC would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus SC (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2012 Kia Rio. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus SC weights approximately 512 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.
Because 1996 Lexus SC 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 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Lexus SC (370 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Rio. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lexus SC | 2012 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Lexus | Kia |
| Model | SC | Rio |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1126 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4046 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 43 L |
