2008 Kia Carens vs. 2012 BMW 123
To start off, 2012 BMW 123 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Kia Carens. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Kia Carens would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 123 (202 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2008 Kia Carens. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 123 should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Carens. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Carens weights approximately 34 kg more than 2012 BMW 123.
Because 2012 BMW 123 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 2012 BMW 123. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Carens, 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 BMW 123 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Carens. (189 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 123 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Carens.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Carens | 2012 BMW 123 | |
| Make | Kia | BMW |
| Model | Carens | 123 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
