1989 Skoda Rapid R vs. 2003 Skoda Superb
To start off, 2003 Skoda Superb is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Skoda Superb is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Skoda Superb (149 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1989 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Skoda Superb should accelerate faster than 1989 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Skoda Superb weights approximately 590 kg more than 1989 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Skoda Rapid R 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 1989 Skoda Rapid R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Skoda Superb, 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, 2003 Skoda Superb (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 2003 Skoda Superb will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Skoda Rapid R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Skoda Rapid R | 2003 Skoda Superb | |
| Make | Skoda | Skoda |
| Model | Rapid R | Superb |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2850 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 62 L |
