2007 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Optima (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (326 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Optima. (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Optima. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2007 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2007 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Optima | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 6.9 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
