2002 BMW 318 vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2002 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 160 kg more than 2002 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW 318 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 2002 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW 318. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2002 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2002 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 318 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 318 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1462 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
