1989 Nissan Santana vs. 2012 Kia Soul
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Santana would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Soul (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Santana. (93 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Soul should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Soul weights approximately 112 kg more than 1989 Nissan Santana. 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, 2012 Kia Soul (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Santana. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Soul will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Nissan Santana | 2012 Kia Soul | |
| Make | Nissan | Kia |
| Model | Santana | Soul |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1186 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2550 mm |
