1989 Toyota Corolla vs. 2012 Kia Rio
To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 23 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 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 64 more horse power than 1989 Toyota Corolla. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1989 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Rio weights approximately 168 kg more than 1989 Toyota Corolla. 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Toyota Corolla. (100 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Toyota Corolla. 2012 Kia Rio 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. 2012 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Toyota Corolla | 2012 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Toyota | Kia |
| Model | Corolla | Rio |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1293 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1093 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 43 L |
