2012 Kia Optima vs. 2009 BMW 318
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2009 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 118 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2009 BMW 318 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 318. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Kia Optima | 2009 BMW 318 | |
Make | Kia | BMW |
Model | Optima | 318 |
Year Released | 2012 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2400 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 252 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 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 | 1462 kg | 1580 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 | 70 L | 63 L |