2009 Kia Rio vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,343 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Rio (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rio weights approximately 718 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Opel Kadett 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 1979 Opel Kadett. 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, 2009 Kia Rio (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rio | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Kia | Opel |
| Model | Rio | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 43 L |
