2009 Kia Rio vs. 1989 Plymouth Laser
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Plymouth Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Plymouth Laser would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Plymouth Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Plymouth Laser (133 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2009 Kia Rio. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Plymouth Laser should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rio weights approximately 289 kg more than 1989 Plymouth Laser.
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, 1989 Plymouth Laser (169 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rio. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Plymouth Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rio | 1989 Plymouth Laser | |
| Make | Kia | Plymouth |
| Model | Rio | Laser |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2480 mm |
