1981 Ford Mustang vs. 2008 Kia Rio
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Mustang weights approximately 254 kg more than 2008 Kia Rio.
Because 1981 Ford Mustang 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 1981 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1981 Ford Mustang (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Rio. (125 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Mustang | 2008 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Mustang | Rio |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1101 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2510 mm |
