2006 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 59 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Volkswagen | Kia |
Model | Golf | Optima |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 248 HP | 274 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 364 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1594 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |