2004 Kia Optima vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 657 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2004 Kia Optima (245 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
