2002 BMW 320 vs. 2006 Kia Optima

To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 93 kg more than 2002 BMW 320.

Because 2002 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 2002 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2002 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.

Compare all specifications:

2002 BMW 320 2006 Kia Optima
Make BMW Kia
Model 320 Optima
Year Released 2002 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2360 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 199 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 86.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 100 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1395 kg 1488 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 4730 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 65 L