2007 Kia Optima vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Optima (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
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 Optima (222 Nm @ 4260 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Optima | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4260 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
