2006 BMW Z4 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 Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (343 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (274 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 203 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4.
Because 2006 BMW Z4 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 Z4. 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (495 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW Z4 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 Z4 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | Z4 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 343 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 495 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
