2007 BMW 523 vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2007 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 523 weights approximately 36 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW 523. 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, 2011 Kia Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 523 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 523 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
