2005 Kia Optima vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 520 weights approximately 303 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 BMW 520 (270 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 2012 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Kia | BMW |
| Model | Optima | 520 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
