2005 Kia Optima vs. 2006 BMW 318
To start off, 2006 BMW 318 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2006 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 12 kg more than 2006 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Kia Optima (245 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 318. (200 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2006 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Kia | BMW |
| Model | Optima | 318 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 63 L |
