2002 Kia Optima vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 163 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 1980 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 1980 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (306 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2002 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2002 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Kia Optima | 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Optima | S |
Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3818 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 218 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 306 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 1595 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2950 mm |