2009 Kia Optima vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
