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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2009 Kia Spectra. (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Spectra weights approximately 5 kg more 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (136 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra.
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 | 1975 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
