2009 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Volkswagen Sharan

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 Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Sharan 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 25 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Sharan. (150 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Sharan.

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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Sharan. (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Sharan.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Kia Optima 2002 Volkswagen Sharan
Make Kia Volkswagen
Model Optima Sharan
Year Released 2009 2002
Body Type Sedan Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2359 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 5 valves
Horse Power 175 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 229 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.1:1 9.3:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4630 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1740 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2850 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 70 L