2005 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Sharan would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. (148 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 187 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima.
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 Optima (241 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. (210 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2003 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1674 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
