2006 BMW 550 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 550 would be higher. At 4,801 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (274 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2006 BMW 550 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 550. 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, 2006 BMW 550 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 550 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 550 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4801 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
