1984 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2012 Kia Rio
To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Rio weights approximately 153 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2012 Kia Rio (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (102 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | 2012 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Kia |
| Model | Jetta | Rio |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1093 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2570 mm |
