2008 BMW 523 vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523.
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 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 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 523 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 Length | 4850 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.3 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
