2006 BMW 523 vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, both 2006 BMW 523 and 2006 Kia Optima were released in the same year (2006). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 37 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 523 | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 523 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
