2008 Kia Spectra 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 Spectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Kia Spectra would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Spectra weights approximately 221 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Spectra. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spectra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1511 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.2 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
