2007 BMW 525 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2007 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 35 kg more than 2007 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 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 (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 525 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 525 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1535 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 |
