2006 BMW 325 vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2006 BMW 325. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 325 weights approximately 7 kg more than 2013 Kia Optima.
Because 2006 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Kia Optima (365 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 325. 2013 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 325 | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 325 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1538 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
