2003 Kia Retona vs. 1981 Talbot Samba
To start off, 2003 Kia Retona is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Talbot Samba. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Talbot Samba would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Kia Retona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Kia Retona (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1981 Talbot Samba. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Kia Retona should accelerate faster than 1981 Talbot Samba. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Retona weights approximately 1130 kg more than 1981 Talbot Samba. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Talbot Samba. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Kia Retona (205 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot Samba. (85 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Kia Retona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot Samba.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Kia Retona | 1981 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | Kia | Talbot |
| Model | Retona | Samba |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1123 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2350 mm |
