2012 Kia Soul vs. 2006 Skoda Roomster
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Skoda Roomster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Skoda Roomster would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Soul is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Soul (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2006 Skoda Roomster. (104 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Soul should accelerate faster than 2006 Skoda Roomster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Soul weights approximately 53 kg more than 2006 Skoda Roomster. 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, 2012 Kia Soul (200 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Skoda Roomster. (153 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Soul will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Skoda Roomster. 2006 Skoda Roomster has automatic transmission and 2012 Kia Soul has manual transmission. 2012 Kia Soul will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Skoda Roomster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Kia Soul | 2006 Skoda Roomster | |
| Make | Kia | Skoda |
| Model | Soul | Roomster |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1228 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1786 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 45 L |
