2006 BMW X3 vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 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, 2006 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2006 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | X3 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
