2004 Kia Optima vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 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, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 173 kg more than 2011 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (230 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 3.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
