2008 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 4 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 65 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, 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 320 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:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 320 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
