2011 Kia Optima vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1981 BMW M1. (273 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW M1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 235 kg more than 1981 BMW M1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW M1 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 1981 BMW M1. 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW M1. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Kia Optima | 1981 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Kia | BMW |
| Model | Optima | M1 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 274 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4844 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1831 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1455 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2797 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 116 L |
