1999 Kia Elan vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Elan would be higher. At 1,793 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Kia Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Elan (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Elan weights approximately 1 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1999 Kia Elan (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Kia Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Elan | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Polo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2470 mm |
