2002 Kia Rio vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Kia Rio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Kia Rio would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (89 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 294 kg more than 2002 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (230 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Rio. (113 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Rio | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rio | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2578 mm |
