2008 Kia Carnival vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Kia Carnival. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Kia Carnival 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 53 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Carnival should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Carnival weights approximately 906 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, 2008 Kia Carnival (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Carnival will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Carnival | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Carnival | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2901 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.2 seconds | 12.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2220 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
