2005 BMW 525 vs. 2012 Kia Optima

To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (200 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 116 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 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 2005 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 525. 2005 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2012 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2012 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 525 2012 Kia Optima
Make BMW Kia
Model 525 Optima
Year Released 2005 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2495 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 215 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 252 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4250 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1570 kg 1454 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4844 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1831 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1455 mm
Wheelbase Size 3000 mm 2797 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 7.9 L/100km 6.7 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 14.4 L/100km 9.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 70 L