1996 Kia Clarus vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Kia Clarus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Kia Clarus would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 114 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 232 kg more than 1996 Kia Clarus.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Kia Clarus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Kia Clarus. (152 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Kia Clarus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Kia Clarus | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Clarus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
