1996 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 508 kg more than 1996 BMW 520.
Because 1996 BMW 520 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 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 520 | 2006 Kia Optima | |
Make | BMW | Kia |
Model | 520 | Optima |
Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2360 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 199 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 2004 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |