1999 BMW Z9 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW Z9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW Z9 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1999 BMW Z9. (242 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW Z9. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z9 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 1999 BMW Z9 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 1999 BMW Z9. 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, 1999 BMW Z9 (560 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z9 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | Z9 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3060 mm | 2797 mm |
