2006 BMW X3 vs. 2010 Kia Optima

To start off, 2010 Kia Optima is newer by 4 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2010 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Kia Optima weights approximately 90 kg more than 2006 BMW X3.

Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2010 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 (246 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 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 2010 Kia Optima. 2010 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW X3 2010 Kia Optima
Make BMW Kia
Model X3 Optima
Year Released 2006 2010
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 189 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 246 Nm 229 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1360 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4801 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1806 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1481 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 62 L