1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Kia Rio
To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 207 kg more than 2012 Kia Rio.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (285 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Rio. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Kia Rio | |
Make | Volkswagen | Kia |
Model | Golf | Rio |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4850 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1093 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4046 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |