1983 BMW 320 vs. 2010 Kia Optima

To start off, 2010 Kia Optima is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1983 BMW 320. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Kia Optima weights approximately 400 kg more than 1983 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 BMW 320 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 1983 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 320. (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 320. 2010 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1983 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1983 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1983 BMW 320 2010 Kia Optima
Make BMW Kia
Model 320 Optima
Year Released 1983 2010
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1991 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 120 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 171 Nm 229 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1050 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4801 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1806 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1481 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 62 L