2006 Kia Optima vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 7 kg more than 2006 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2011 BMW 325 (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Kia | BMW |
| Model | Optima | 325 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 63 L |
