2009 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 364 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Polo (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 2003 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.6 L/100km | 4.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.9 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.4 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
