2009 Kia Rio vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda 121 (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Kia Rio. (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rio weights approximately 378 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121.
Because 1981 Mazda 121 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 1981 Mazda 121. 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, 1981 Mazda 121 (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rio. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rio | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | 121 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2520 mm |
