2008 BMW 523 vs. 2009 Kia Magentis
To start off, 2009 Kia Magentis is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,655 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Magentis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Magentis (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Magentis should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Magentis weights approximately 75 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Magentis, 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, 2009 Kia Magentis (247 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Magentis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523. 2009 Kia Magentis has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Magentis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2009 Kia Magentis | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 523 | Magentis |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2655 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 247 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 86.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
