2004 Kia Optima vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 332 kg more than 1991 Volkswagen Golf.
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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (234 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
