2007 BMW X3 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2007 BMW X3. (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 157 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 BMW X3 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2007 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2007 BMW X3 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:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | X3 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 65 L |
