1998 BMW 325 vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1998 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 325 | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | BMW | Kia |
Model | 325 | Optima |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2359 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |