1992 BMW 325 vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 158 kg more than 1992 BMW 325.
Because 1992 BMW 325 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 1992 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, both vehicles can yield 245 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 325 | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 325 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
