2007 Kia Carens vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Kia Carens is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Carens (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Carens should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Kia Carens weights approximately 471 kg more than 1996 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, 2007 Kia Carens (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Carens will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Carens | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Carens | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1631 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
