2009 Kia Optima vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (285 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
