2008 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 138 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 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 Volkswagen Passat (335 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Kia |
| Model | Passat | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
