1997 Kia Retona vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Kia Retona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Kia Retona would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Kia Retona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Kia Retona (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Kia Retona should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Kia Retona weights approximately 785 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Kia Retona will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Kia Retona (206 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (112 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Kia Retona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Kia Retona | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Retona | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2470 mm |
