2004 Kia Retona vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 2004 Kia Retona is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura EL would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Retona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura EL (127 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2004 Kia Retona. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura EL should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Retona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Retona weights approximately 791 kg more than 1997 Acura EL.
Because 2004 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Acura EL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Kia Retona (205 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Kia Retona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Retona | 1997 Acura EL | |
| Make | Kia | Acura |
| Model | Retona | EL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2619 mm |
