2008 BMW 523 vs. 2013 Kia SOUL
To start off, 2013 Kia SOUL is newer by 5 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2013 Kia SOUL. (162 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2013 Kia SOUL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 262 kg more than 2013 Kia SOUL. 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, 2013 Kia SOUL, 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 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Kia SOUL. (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Kia SOUL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2013 Kia SOUL | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 523 | SOUL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| 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 | 175 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 48 L |
