1996 BMW 523 vs. 2004 Kia Optima
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 523 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 4 kg more than 1996 BMW 523.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1996 BMW 523 (245 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 1996 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 523 | 2004 Kia Optima | |
Make | BMW | Kia |
Model | 523 | Optima |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2398 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 199 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 100 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1549 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |