2008 BMW 320 vs. 2005 Kia Optima

To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 92 kg more than 2008 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 320 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 2008 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Kia Optima (241 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (200 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 320 2005 Kia Optima
Make BMW Kia
Model 320 Optima
Year Released 2008 2005
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2671 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 241 Nm
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 87 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 75 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1395 kg 1487 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4730 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7.4 L/100km 10.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 65 L