2001 Kia Rio vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2001 Kia Rio is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2001 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2001 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 660 kg more than 2001 Kia Rio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Pontiac Firebird 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 1973 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Kia Rio, 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, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Kia Rio. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Kia Rio | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Kia | Pontiac |
| Model | Rio | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1342 cc | 5792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2750 mm |
