2008 BMW 550 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 550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 550 would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
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, 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 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 550 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4800 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 489 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
