1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2010 Kia Optima
To start off, 2010 Kia Optima is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 110 kg more than 2010 Kia Optima.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 2010 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2010 Kia Optima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
Model | E | Optima |
Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4801 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1806 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1481 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |