2009 Kia Optima vs. 2011 BMW 125
To start off, 2011 BMW 125 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 125 weights approximately 66 kg more than 2009 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 125 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 2011 BMW 125. 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, 2011 BMW 125 (271 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2011 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Kia | BMW |
| Model | Optima | 125 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.4 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 53 L |
