1965 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,305 cc (6 cylinders), 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 235 kg more than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1965 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
Model | SL | Optima |
Year Released | 1965 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2305 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 274 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 196 Nm | 364 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |