2008 Kia Spectra vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (150 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Spectra weights approximately 299 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (202 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Spectra. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Spectra | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spectra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1511 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.2 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
