2009 Kia Sportage vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Kia Sportage 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Sportage (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Sportage weights approximately 799 kg more than 2008 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 Sportage (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Sportage | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sportage | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2083 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
