2009 BMW 523 vs. 2004 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Spectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Spectra would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2004 Kia Spectra. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 302 kg more than 2004 Kia Spectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Spectra, 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, 2009 BMW 523 (230 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Spectra. (161 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 2004 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 523 | Spectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
