2009 Kia Rondo vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Kia Rondo is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Rondo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Rondo (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rondo should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rondo weights approximately 125 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2009 Kia Rondo (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Rondo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Kia Rondo has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Rondo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rondo | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rondo | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
