2000 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2000 BMW 325. (168 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW 325 weights approximately 88 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2000 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 2000 BMW 325. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW 325 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 325 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
