2008 BMW 320 vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320.
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, 2009 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, 2008 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 320 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
