2008 Kia Carnival vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Kia Carnival is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,901 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Carnival is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Carnival (142 HP @ 8800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Carnival should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Carnival weights approximately 940 kg more than 2004 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, 2008 Kia Carnival (310 Nm) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Kia Carnival will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Carnival | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Carnival | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2901 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2220 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
