2008 BMW X3 vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2011 Kia Optima. (200 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 356 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 X3 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | X3 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1462 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 | 70 L |
