1978 Volkswagen Citi vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Citi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Citi would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 587 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. (150 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Citi has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Citi will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Citi | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Kia |
| Model | Citi | Optima |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 948 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2797 mm |
