1996 BMW 535 vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2011 Kia Optima. (200 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 156 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 535 (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 535 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
