2009 BMW 120 vs. 2007 Kia Optima

To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2007 Kia Optima. (162 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2007 Kia Optima.

Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2009 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Optima. (222 Nm @ 4260 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Optima. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 2007 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2007 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 120 2007 Kia Optima
Make BMW Kia
Model 120 Optima
Year Released 2009 2007
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2399 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 162 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 222 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4260 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 16.0:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 4740 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 51 L 65 L