2009 Kia Rio vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Rio (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rio weights approximately 709 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 2009 Kia Rio (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rio | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rio | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
