2008 Kia Spectra5 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra5 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Spectra5 (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra5 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 5 kg more than 2008 Kia Spectra5.
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 Spectra5 (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Spectra5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Spectra5 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spectra5 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
