2008 Kia Sorento vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Kia Sorento is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Sorento (262 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Sorento weights approximately 330 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Kia Sorento is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Kia Sorento (353 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. 2008 Kia Sorento has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Sorento | 1997 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sorento | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
