2005 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 158 kg more than 2005 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, 2011 Kia Optima (252 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Kia |
| Model | Golf | Optima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.6 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
