1998 BMW 320 vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Optima weights approximately 38 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Kia Optima (365 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 320 | 2013 Kia Optima | |
Make | BMW | Kia |
Model | 320 | Optima |
Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2169 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 365 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1538 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4845 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2795 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |