2011 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2011 BMW 323 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 323. 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, 2011 BMW 323 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 323 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:
| 2011 BMW 323 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 323 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
