2012 Kia Optima vs. 2006 BMW 325
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 88 kg more than 2006 BMW 325.
Because 2006 BMW 325 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 2006 BMW 325. 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, 2006 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Kia Optima | 2006 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Kia | BMW |
| Model | Optima | 325 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1583 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4844 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1831 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1455 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2797 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 63 L |
