2009 Kia Spectra vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Kia Spectra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2009 Kia Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spectra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
