2004 Kia Optima vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 13 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
