2003 Kia Sorento vs. 2008 Kia Carnival

To start off, 2008 Kia Carnival is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Kia Sorento. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Kia Sorento would be higher. At 3,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Carnival weights approximately 88 kg more than 2003 Kia Sorento.

Because 2003 Kia Sorento is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Kia Carnival. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Kia Sorento 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, both vehicles can yield 310 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2003 Kia Sorento has automatic transmission and 2008 Kia Carnival has manual transmission. 2008 Kia Carnival will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Kia Sorento 2008 Kia Carnival
Make Kia Kia
Model Sorento Carnival
Year Released 2003 2008
Body Type SUV Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3489 cc 2902 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 192 HP 0 HP
Torque 310 Nm 310 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 19.3:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1990 kg 2078 kg
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1910 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2910 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 75 L