1997 Volkswagen Fusca vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Fusca would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. (52 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 763 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Fusca is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. (105 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Fusca has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Fusca 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:
1997 Volkswagen Fusca | 2011 Kia Optima | |
Make | Volkswagen | Kia |
Model | Fusca | Optima |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1583 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 52 HP | 166 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 209 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1583 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2797 mm |