2002 Kia Optima vs. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 6,834 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (283 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 988 kg more than 2002 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (549 Nm) has 333 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 1975 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Kia Optima | 1975 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Optima | S |
Year Released | 2002 | 1975 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 6834 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 283 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 549 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 2420 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |