2006 Kia Sorento vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Kia Sorento is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Sorento (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Sorento weights approximately 1007 kg more than 1996 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, 2006 Kia Sorento (301 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2006 Kia Sorento has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Sorento | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sorento | Polo |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2027 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
