2005 Kia Carnival vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Kia Carnival is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Carnival is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Carnival (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Carnival should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Carnival weights approximately 10 kg more than 2003 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, 2005 Kia Carnival (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Carnival will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Carnival | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Carnival | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2512 mm |
