2009 Kia Rio vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,290 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2009 Kia Rio. (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rio weights approximately 548 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-2 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rio, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rio. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rio | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2480 mm |
