2009 Kia Sportage vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Kia Sportage is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Sportage (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Sportage weights approximately 325 kg more than 1998 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, 2009 Kia Sportage (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Kia Sportage has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Sportage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Sportage | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sportage | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
