2008 BMW 550 vs. 2006 Kia Optima
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Kia Optima would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 172 kg more than 2006 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 550 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 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 2006 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 550 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 2360 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
