2005 Kia Optima vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 151 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
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 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1895 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 | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
