2005 Kia Optima vs. 2004 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V50 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 58 kg more than 2004 Volvo V50.
Because 2004 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 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, 2004 Volvo V50 (320 Nm) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2004 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Kia | Volvo |
| Model | Optima | V50 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 58 L |
