I had the perfect storm with my 2001 Kia Rio 1.5L I bought new in 2001. Th battery lasted 10 years solid and I replaced it out of raw fear. It started perfectly every time. I wish I could recall the make. It was Asian of course. Not Panasonic but something like that.
Why it lasted?
Perhaps because I did highway driving daily the first 5 years. No power locks or windows. Just 1500cc to crank. A wide open engine bay (cool air flow). Had a thin foam wrap on it from factory. These are all speculation but I do know this ....it never ever cranked slow ....it was eerie man. The tranny went before the battery!
Why it lasted?
Perhaps because I did highway driving daily the first 5 years. No power locks or windows. Just 1500cc to crank. A wide open engine bay (cool air flow). Had a thin foam wrap on it from factory. These are all speculation but I do know this ....it never ever cranked slow ....it was eerie man. The tranny went before the battery!