2004 Kia Sportage vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Kia Sportage is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2004 Kia Sportage. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Sportage.
Because 2004 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Sportage will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (235 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Sportage. (180 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Sportage.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Sportage | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sportage | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2480 mm |
