2008 Alpina B5 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Alpina B5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Alpina B5 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alpina B5 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (200 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alpina B5 weights approximately 258 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Alpina B5 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 2008 Alpina B5. 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, 2008 Alpina B5 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 448 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alpina B5 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Alpina | Kia |
| Model | B5 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1462 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
