2004 Kia Optima vs. 2005 BMW 325
To start off, 2005 BMW 325 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 325 (184 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 325 weights approximately 83 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 245 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2005 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Kia | BMW |
| Model | Optima | 325 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 63 L |
