2004 Kia Rio vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Rio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Rio would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2004 Kia Rio. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 256 kg more than 2004 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 (240 Nm) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Rio. (141 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Rio | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rio | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.1 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.1 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
