2009 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen Microbus has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 2002 Volkswagen Microbus | |
Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
Model | Optima | Microbus |
Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2553 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 176 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1960 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |