1996 BMW 525 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 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 525 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 525 weights approximately 22 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 525 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 525. 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 525 (245 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 1996 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 525 | 2004 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 525 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 65 L |
