1999 Kia Rio vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Rio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Rio would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Rio (98 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 505 kg more than 1999 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Rio. (143 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Rio | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rio | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2578 mm |
