1989 Toyota Corolla vs. 2009 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2009 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,494 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota RAV4 (179 HP) has 116 more horse power than 1989 Toyota Corolla. (63 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1989 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 6 kg more than 2009 Toyota RAV4.
Because 2009 Toyota RAV4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Toyota Corolla. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota RAV4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Toyota RAV4 (233 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Toyota Corolla. (110 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Toyota Corolla. 2009 Toyota RAV4 has automatic transmission and 1989 Toyota Corolla has manual transmission. 1989 Toyota Corolla will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Toyota Corolla | 2009 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Corolla | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 179 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1074 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2670 mm |
