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Hi Jack - am looking at buying either (1) an ex rental Kia Rio 2003 or 05 with approx 140 - 160kms or (2) a 2001 or 02 Toyota Vitz approx 100kms for my daughter (16yrs). Will need for approx 5 yrs max as another daughter currently 14yrs will use in time. Just a run around town car no long distances. Both in the $5K to $7K price range. Any comments you have on safety, reliability, fuel economy would be appreciated. Thanks Nigel.

You need to make sure the comparisons are equal in terms of body configuration (5-door v 3-door), engine size and safety features (number of airbags etc).

For example, a 1.0 litre Vitz automatic would struggle power wise against a 1.6 litre Rio.

Bear in mind a 1.0 litre engine would struggle regardless of comparisons with other vehicles full stop.

The high km’s would make me nervous on the Kia although comparing service histories may help even things out considerably.

Kia is definitely an underrated brand however they were still in catch-up mode over their main rivals in 2003/05.

I lean a little more toward the Toyota but only if the specification comparisons are the same and because the mileage is lower.

If the Kia has been a rental all its life then I would also be a little nervous about its long term reliability.