2011 Kia Optima vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 248 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2011 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 2011 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2011 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Kia Optima | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1454 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4844 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1831 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1455 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2797 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
