2008 BMW X5 vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X5 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2011 Kia Optima. (200 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 645 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X5 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 X5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 X5 (481 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | X5 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 481 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 2099 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 70 L |
