2002 Kia Optima vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Kia Optima weights approximately 208 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Kia Optima (216 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. (153 Nm). This means 2002 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Optima | 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | 190 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
