1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 328 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 1996 BMW Z3. 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | Z3 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 65 L |
