2001 Kia Rio vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2001 Kia Rio is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Kia Rio (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Santana weights approximately 100 kg more than 2001 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, 2001 Kia Rio (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2001 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Kia Rio | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rio | Santana |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1342 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2560 mm |
