1978 BMW 725 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1978 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 725.
Because 1978 BMW 725 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 725 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 725 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2797 mm |
