2005 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 96 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | GTI |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 10.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
