2006 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2006 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 60 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, 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 (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 318. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 318 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 318 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
