2007 Kia Optima vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 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 2,654 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Optima (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Kia Optima weights approximately 141 kg more than 2011 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 Optima (247 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. 2007 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Optima | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2654 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 247 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
