2009 Kia Rio vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
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 RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2009 Kia Rio. (96 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rio weights approximately 98 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1981 Mazda RX-7 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 RX-7. 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 RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rio. (132 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda RX-7 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 RX-7 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1158 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
