1988 BMW 535 vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 92 kg more than 2013 Kia Optima.
Because 1988 BMW 535 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 1988 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Kia Optima (365 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 535 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1538 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
