2001 Kia Rio vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Kia Rio is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2001 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2001 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 281 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.
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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Kia Rio. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Kia Rio | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rio | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1342 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2520 mm |
