2012 Kia Optima vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 105 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Kia Optima | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optima | Passat |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| 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 | 166 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1583 kg | 1478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4844 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1831 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1455 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2797 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
