2004 Kia Rio vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Kia Rio is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Rio (104 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Rio weights approximately 145 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2004 Kia Rio (141 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Rio | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rio | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
